Transport MEC warns used car dealerships buying hijacked state vehicles

KwaZulu-Natal's Transport MEC, Siboniso Duma, has issued a stern warning to used car dealerships, threatening severe consequences for purchasing hijacked or stolen state vehicles. This warning came after the recovery of a hijacked double-cab bakkie in Azalea Township, Pietermaritzburg, where one individual has been arrested. The theft occurred on Tuesday, and Duma commended his team for their decisive actions during the #NenzaniLaEzweni Operation on Thursday.

Duma hailed the operation as evidence of the department's stronger stance against criminals targeting their assets, fleet, and infrastructure, which are designed to enhance service delivery for ordinary community members. He emphasized that Operation Shanela and Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) teams are collaborating with all law enforcement agencies to swiftly address any resurgence of state vehicle hijackings.

Duma cautioned society and used car dealerships that there will be dire repercussions for buying stolen state cars, as these vehicles often end up in chop shops or are exported to neighboring countries.

Duma revealed that the department has safeguarded 8,991 state vehicles. However, the issue extends beyond state-owned vehicles, as national crime statistics for the fourth quarter of the 2025/2026 financial year indicate a total of 3,609 carjackings across South Africa. In KwaZulu-Natal alone, there were 446 reported incidents during the same period, while Gauteng accounted for 2,062 incidents.

Among the top 30 police stations for carjackings, Johannesburg's Alexandra area led with 63 incidents, while KZN's Umlazi was ranked fifth with 52 incidents.

Although carjacking incidents are decreasing nationwide, the statistics still reveal alarmingly high levels of vehicle theft in South Africa. Popular models such as the Toyota Hilux, Volkswagen Polo, Kia Picanto, Isuzu D-Max, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Ford Ranger are frequently targeted due to their high resale value and demand for parts. Several high-risk hijacking areas remain unchanged across the country.