Durban Central is South Africa’s new car theft capital – crime stats

More than five cars are stolen in the Durban Central, Berea and Umbilo areas every day, according to a report issued by Blue Security, Rising Sun Overport reports.

The South African Police Service’s (SAPS) most recent crime stats revealed Durban Central as the new car theft capital of South Africa.

With a startling 765 cases, the station saw a 19 percent increase in the theft of a motor vehicle or motorcycle during the 2018/2019 period.

Not far behind, Berea is fourth on the list with a 14, 8 percent increase and Umbilo is fifth with an 8, 7 percent increase in the theft of motor vehicles or motorcycles.

Despite these staggering statistics, KZN as a whole saw an overall decrease of 2, 3 percent in cases of theft of a motor vehicle or motorcycle.

While Durban Central, Berea, Umbilo and Amanzimtoti stations showed an increase in cases, Westville, Hillcrest, Pinetown and Chatsworth stations showed decreases in cases of motor vehicle theft.

Vehicle theft is difficult to curb as criminals are in and out very quickly.

Remote jamming is still a common method used and thieves also bring their computer boxes and keys to start the vehicle.

“Our tactical ambassadors advise that you don’t leave any valuables in your car and to park in well-lit areas as poor lighting has an impact on vehicle theft,” said the Blue Security team.