Increase in Toyota bakkies theft in Centurion
Centurion police spokesperson Captain Dave Miller told Rekord that criminals were targeting these cars at off-ramps where it was impossible for drivers to make a U-turn.
Toyota bakkies are increasingly being targeted for hijacking in Centurion, police warn.
According to the police, criminals were targeting Toyota bakkies more than any other bakkie in the area.
Centurion police spokesperson Captain Dave Miller told Rekord that criminals were targeting these cars at off-ramps where it was impossible for drivers to make a U-turn.
“A lot more Toyota bakkies are being hijacked on the freeways towards off-ramps. Another major concern we are faced with as the station is truck hijackings,” Miller said.
He further said as opposed to neighbouring police stations, Centurion didn’t experience hijackings at traffic lights.
Miller said another favourite for hijackings was Ford bakkies even though not as much as Toyota bakkies.
“Usually company cars are being targeted by criminals.”
Monitor Net security public relations officer JP Le Roux confirmed that vehicle theft in Centurion was indeed a concern.
Le Roux, however, said these hijackings were not taking place daily.
“What we have picked up as the security sector is that criminals were targeting your Toyota Hilux and Ford vans and also Lexus was also being targeted lately,” he said.
Le Roux also said criminals were pickpocketing unsuspecting drivers for their car keys while grocery shopping then steal their cars.
He urged residents to be vigilant of their surroundings.
“Most importantly they need to check where they are parking as that also contributes to hijacking,” he said.
Reports have recently surfaced that criminals were targeting the most popular cars due to the high demand for their parts.
It is also stated that hijackings contributed to 54% of vehicle thefts between 05:00 and noon, and 47% at lunch time.
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