A video circulating widely on Facebook (South Africa Daily) — showing remote-jammers at work in a parking area — has sparked renewed concern among motorists ahead of the festive season.

Although remote jamming is not a new crime trend, the footage has jolted motorists into realising just how quickly and quietly criminals can strike.

The video, which has been shared across community groups, demonstrates how offenders use small handheld devices to block vehicle locking signals, leaving motorists believing their cars are secure when they are not.

Also read: Three suspects linked to Durban North thefts arrested

And it’s not a one-man band operation — it’s a whole production crew. The video clearly shows the motorist being followed by one of the men into the mall, probably to keep watch. Then, a second car pulls up and another man gains access to the motorist’s vehicle and drives off. Thereafter the suspect keeping watch on the driver inside the mall appears and they leave. Where is the car guard, you ask? Right there.

The Durban North CPF says the public should use this as a wake-up call, especially as shopping centres become busier and opportunistic criminals take advantage of the festive rush.

Remote jamming remains one of the most common parking-lot crimes, with criminals specifically targeting distracted drivers, full trolleys, armfuls of shopping bags and vehicles packed with visible valuables.

At the end of the day, the CPF says, awareness is still the strongest defence.

CPF spokesperson Darryl Oliver said the viral video is an important reminder to motorists to take remote-jamming seriously and to adopt simple, proactive habits to stay safe.

Also read: Common robbery cases continue in north Durban

“We are heading into the festive season, and criminals are taking advantage of crowded shopping centres and distracted motorists. We urge residents to stay alert, be cautious and take simple steps to reduce the risk of falling victim to remote-jamming incidents.”

Oliver shared the following tips for motorists:

1. Stay alert from the moment you enter a parking area. Watch for people loitering or sitting in parked vehicles.
2. Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, move to another parking bay and alert centre security or your local CPF group.
3. Choose well-lit areas when parking at night.
4. Never walk away immediately. Even with auto-lock, physically check that your doors are locked. Press the remote a second time to confirm.
5. Keep valuables out of sight. Avoid leaving items like bags, sunglasses, laptops and electronics visible in the car.
6. When returning to your car, stay aware of your surroundings, load items quickly and avoid lingering.
7. Take tracking alerts seriously. Many tracking systems notify drivers of possible jamming — do not ignore these warnings.

Oliver emphasised that community safety relies on vigilance.

“Simple awareness can prevent most remote-jamming incidents. We encourage shoppers to remain extra cautious and report anything suspicious immediately.”

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