South Africa: New Methods of Vehicle Theft

Key Points: A new method of vehicle theft involving car washes has been reported.

Details:

1. A new method of vehicle theft has been confirmed, where criminals steal cars left at car washes.
2. The perpetrators wait at the car wash and, once the driver has left the vehicle, they deceive the staff by claiming to be a relative who is picking up the car on their behalf, and then steal the vehicle.
3. Although the method is quite simple, many incidents have occurred. Therefore, always keep the car keys with you and remain nearby while your car is being washed.
4. Additionally, recent statistics indicate that in Gauteng Province, a vehicle hijacking occurs approximately every 20 minutes. Be vigilant and cautious while driving.
5. In the event of becoming a victim, please file a report with the police and notify the Embassy of Japan in South Africa with a summary of the incident.