Hi-jackings are 1 of the scariest threats South African drivers face, and unfortunately, they’re becoming more common. It used to be that if you drove something a bit flashier or drove into known high-risk areas, you could be more likely to be hi-jacked. But now? Well, now it can happen to anyone.
Whether you drive a flashy SUV or a modest hatchback, park in the nicest area or are just popping momentarily through a risky zone, no one is immune. That’s why it’s so important to understand your risk, how your insurance can help, and what you can do to stay safe.
We want you to be safe and sound, so let’s take a quick look at what the latest crime stats reveal… And then move onto how the king’s got your back when it matters most.
Before we begin (what to do if this happens to you)
The priority is always your safety. Here’s what experts advise…
- Stay calm and comply. Don’t argue or resist.
- Don’t make sudden moves. Let the hi-jackers know what you’re doing.
- Step away quickly once you’re out the car.
- Report the incident immediately to SAPS and your insurer.
- Seek medical and emotional support if needed. Trauma is real, and help is available.
The latest hi-jacking stats in South Africa
Now, let’s move onto the stats. Knowing this info isn’t meant to scare you, but it can help you understand why or what you could do to prevent an incident like this happening.
According to SAPS data released in February 2025:
- There’s been a 6% year-on-year increase, with over 24,000 hi-jackings reported in the 2023/2024 period.
- That’s an average of 66 hi-jackings every day.
- The most hi-jackings happened in: Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape.
- Hi-jackings are most likely to occur during peak traffic times, near home driveways, at traffic lights, and in parking lots, and on quieter suburban roads, where getaway routes are easy.
- Criminals are increasingly working in groups, using fake blue lights, posing as delivery drivers, or staging minor collisions to force you to stop.
What can you do?
Okay, so knowing that Gauteng (especially Joburg, Pretoria, and Ekurhuleni), KwaZulu-Natal (Durban and surrounds), and the Western Cape (Cape Town and neighbouring areas) are risky, do you just move?
Of course, you absolutely can. But that’s not possible for everyone. What you can do is use the info provided by the SAPS to get proactive. We know that you can’t ‘hijack-proof’ your life, but you can take a few steps to reduce your exposure.
Tips to stay safe
- Know it: Stay alert at known hot spots, especially when leaving or arriving home.
- Lock it: Keep your doors locked and windows rolled up in traffic or while waiting.
- Leave it: Put space between you and the car in front so you can escape if needed.
- Avoid it: Don’t change the radio or check your phone at stop streets.
- Change it: Vary your routes and departure times now and then, because predictability makes you a target.
What can the king do for you?
When you join our kingdom, you don’t just get a top-notch policy that looks after your risk. You also get our support during tough times.
Here’s what we’ll do to cover and support you
- With comprehensive or theft and write-off insurance, we’ll cover theft or total loss of your car.
- Our comprehensive policy covers the damage to your car (if it’s recovered but not in the same condition).
- Repairs or replacement are covered based on your selected value type.
- If you took us up on the option to add car hire when you took out your policy, we’ll organise everything so that you’re mobile while your claim is processed.
- We’ll sort out trauma counselling, through personal accident or value-added products (where applicable).
Please keep in mind that if you have the king’s third party, fire and theft option or theft and write-off cover, only the loss of the car is covered… Not the repairs.
The king has your back
Hi-jackings are on the rise, but you don’t have to face the risk alone. With King Price, your comprehensive cover protects your car, your budget, and your peace of mind.
Want to check what’s included in your policy? Simply WhatsApp 0860 50 50 50 or click here to get a commitment-free quote.