READ: Swift Police Action Foils Attempted Hijacking in Cullinan, Gauteng

Cullinan, Gauteng – On Monday, May 12, 2025, at approximately 15:10, a motorist narrowly escaped an attempted hijacking on the M10 road in the Cullinan policing area, thanks to the rapid response of local police. Three armed suspects were apprehended, and a firearm with eight rounds of ammunition was recovered, highlighting the ongoing challenge of vehicle hijackings in South Africa.

The victim, who had pulled over to the side of the M10 road, was approached by a white VW Jetta that stopped in front of his vehicle. Three men exited the car, one brandishing a firearm and ordering the motorist to get out. Before the suspects could proceed, they spotted an approaching police vehicle, prompting them to panic. They instructed the victim to leave and fled back to their Jetta.

Alerted immediately, nearby police officers acted swiftly, intercepting the suspects’ vehicle and arresting all three individuals. A search revealed a firearm with eight rounds of ammunition in their possession, for which the suspects could provide no legal explanation. The trio now faces charges of attempted hijacking, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and possession of ammunition.

Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine if the suspects are linked to other criminal activities. The recovered firearm will undergo ballistic testing to check for connections to previous crimes. Major-General Samuel Thine, Tshwane District Commissioner, praised the officers for their quick action and commitment to community safety, stating, “This response demonstrates our dedication to keeping our communities safe.”

This incident underscores the severe and ongoing issue of vehicle hijackings in South Africa, particularly in Gauteng. Recent data indicates that approximately 60 cars are hijacked daily across the country, with Gauteng accounting for nearly half of these incidents. Other high-risk provinces include the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, each contributing about 14% to the national total.

Popular vehicle models, such as Toyota’s Hilux, Fortuner, and Etios, and Volkswagen’s Polo, are frequent targets due to their high demand on the black market for resale or parts. Hijackings not only result in significant financial losses but also create a climate of fear among drivers, who feel vulnerable at traffic lights, petrol stations, or even in their driveways. This pervasive threat disrupts daily life, deters investment, and places additional strain on South Africa’s economy and security resources.

The Cullinan incident is a stark reminder of the challenges law enforcement faces in combating organized crime. While the swift police response prevented a potentially violent outcome, the high daily rate of hijackings—around 5,447 cases reported in the second quarter of 2024 alone—signals the need for comprehensive strategies. These include enhanced patrols, public awareness campaigns, and the use of technologies like vehicle tracking systems to deter criminals.

Efforts to address the root causes of hijackings, such as poverty, unemployment, and the proliferation of illegal firearms, are equally critical. As investigations into the Cullinan suspects continue, the incident serves as both a success story for police responsiveness and a call to action for broader systemic change.

For more information on crime prevention initiatives, contact the South African Police Service or local community safety organizations.