By Thokozani Mazibuko
A troubling trend has emerged in Eswatini, with reports confirming that over 20 cars have been stolen at gunpoint from their owners while parked at home since the beginning of the year.
Senior Superintendent Phindile Vilakati, the Chief Police Information and Communication Officer (PICO), addressed the alarming situation during a recent press conference.
According to Vilakati, the brazen carjackings typically occur as thieves target vehicles parked in residential areas. “Some of these cars are taken forcefully from their owners at gunpoint while they are in the comfort of their homes,” she stated. The police have indicated that the robbers often choose their victims with the intent of acquiring a getaway car, indicating a calculated approach to these crimes.
Vilakati further noted a disturbing trend where some vehicle owners falsely report their cars as stolen, claiming they have been taken by individuals to whom they owe money. This complicates efforts to address the rising issue, as the police must navigate both legitimate car thefts and potential disputes of a financial nature.
In one of the most recent cases, the police have asked the members of the public for assistance in locating a black Nissan Serena registered SSD 223 CM, which was taken from its owner by three men armed with a pistol at Khalangilile. There have also been other cases that police have requested information from the public.
“Help us locate a silver-grey Honda Fit registered USD 157 CM which was stolen while parked at Matsapha Tispy Cow Bar and help us locate a silver-grey Honda Fit registered ASD 338 BH which was stolen while parked around Manzini (Tourist),” Vilakati said in a statement.
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The Chief PICO requested Members of the Public to immediately dial 999/9999 if they happen to spot these stolen vehicles. Considering these concerning developments, Vilakati urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity.
“We encourage the community to take proactive steps to ensure the safety and security of their vehicles. It is crucial to report any suspicious persons or unusual activities in your neighbourhoods immediately,” she advised.
The police are ramping up efforts to combat car theft and improve community safety. A public awareness campaign focusing on crime prevention tips and the importance of reporting suspicious activities is in the works. Residents are also encouraged to secure their vehicles with proper locking systems and to remain aware of their surroundings.
As the police investigate recent thefts, according to the Chief PICO, the involvement and cooperation of the community are essential in tackling this growing issue.
Worth noting is that the African continent is facing a disturbing surge in carjackings, with numerous reports highlighting an increase in these brazen thefts across several nations. As urban centres continue to grow, so too does the frequency of violent car crimes, drawing attention to the rising insecurity experienced by residents and the urgent need for effective law enforcement strategies.
In countries like South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya, reports indicate a troubling uptick in carjackings, often perpetrated by organised gangs utilising increasingly violent tactics to steal vehicles.
According to a 2023 study by the South African Insurance Association, car theft rates have risen by an alarming 15 per cent compared to the previous year. Many of these incidents involve criminals targeting unsuspecting drivers at gunpoint, often resulting in violent confrontations.
Similarly, in Nigeria, the National Bureau of Statistics reported a significant rise in motor vehicle thefts, with incidence rates showing a consistent upward trend. Experts suggest that poverty and unemployment are major contributing factors to this escalation, pushing desperate individuals into lives of crime. The economic downturn exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic has left many vulnerable, leading to a swell of criminal activities, including carjackings.
In East Africa, Kenya reports a similar narrative. A recent security report from the Kenya National Police Service indicates that carjackings have become a widespread concern in urban areas, especially in Nairobi. Victims often report being attacked while navigating busy streets or parked outside their homes. The police have urged residents to adopt precautionary measures, such as avoiding high-risk areas and staying aware of their surroundings.
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Community safety advocates emphasise the importance of public awareness in combating this rising trend. Local organisations in various regions are promoting initiatives aimed at educating citizens on crime prevention strategies. Additionally, there is a growing call for collaborative efforts between government authorities and law enforcement agencies to devise comprehensive policies that address the root causes of carjackings.
Amid the growing trend, technology is emerging as a potential ally in the fight against car theft. Many vehicle manufacturers equipped cars with GPS tracking systems, and mobile apps are being developed to allow owners to immediately report thefts, track their vehicles, and alert local authorities.
Despite these advancements, gaps in law enforcement remain evident. According to the report, critics argue that inadequate police funding, limited resources, and inconsistent crime reporting systems hamper effective responses to carjackings across the continent. To combat this surge in violence and insecurity, governments must allocate more resources to law enforcement agencies and enhance community policing initiatives.
It should be noted that as carjacking incidents continue to rise, the need for a multi-faceted approach involving law enforcement, community engagement, and technological innovation has never been more critical. The safety and security of individuals across the continent depend on the concerted efforts of all stakeholders to address this urgent issue effectively.
