Over the last few weeks the number of hijackings and motor vehicle thefts across Gauteng has shown a worrying increase.

This is according to private security company Fidelity ADT.

Also read: Police warn that vehicle theft is increasing

“While proactive patrolling by the community policing forums, police and security companies is keeping pressure on criminals, the numbers of incidents are still alarming,” said Charnel Hattingh, Head of Marketing & Communications at Fidelity ADT.

Unfortunately, hijacking and motor vehicle theft will always be an issue that we need to focus on. Criminals are opportunistic and are always looking for ways to get what they want. Recently we have seen that they are targeting specific vehicles, particularly high-end bakkies.

“This week alone there were 14 reported incidents where bakkies were stolen – four in Pretoria (Atterbury), four in the West Rand area and six in Boksburg. We’ve also noticed an increase in theft from motor vehicles, because motorists leave valuables in plain sight,” she said.

Also read: The real cost of vehicle theft

Hattingh added that motorists should also ensure that their vehicles are locked when parked at shopping malls, schools, medical centres, businesses and so on.

The growing use of a remote jamming device to block or jam the locking mechanism of motor vehicles unfortunately has become an everyday occurrence. Always check that the car is locked by testing the door. Don’t assume that by pressing the remote locking device that your car is locked,” she continued.

“It is especially important not to leave any valuable items inside the car where they can be seen through the window. Rather lock these items in the boot,” she said.

Hattingh asked motorists to report any suspicious activity to the police or security providers in their areas.