07-05-2025
Vehicle jamming surges in east of Pretoria, motorists warned
Motorists in the east of Pretoria are urged to remain vigilant due to a rise in vehicle remote jamming in shopping mall parking lots and other public spaces.
Drivers are advised to double-check that their vehicle doors are secure before leaving, as criminals use remote jamming devices to prevent cars from locking properly.
Recent reports indicate that such incidents have been reported in Mooikloof.
According to the spokesperson for Bull Security, French Jooste, there is a very big spike in vehicle remote jamming incidents in the shopping mall parking areas around the east of Pretoria.
'These criminals will sit in the parking area waiting for you to get out of your vehicle. The moment you walk away, they will jam the signal from your remote locking device, which then prevents your vehicle from locking,' Jooste explained.
'If you notice that you are struggling to lock your vehicle, inform security immediately and never leave valuables inside your vehicle, as this is an open invitation to criminals,' Jooste said.
'The device used to jam the signal can be as simple as an electric gate remote or more complex. Your car won't be able to detect the remote signal in the 'noise', and it won't lock. You will think your car is locked, and when you walk away, your vehicle remains unlocked. This happens quickly, especially when you are busy, in a rush or are distracted by your phone or kids,' Jooste said.
He said to be safe, rather lock your car manually.
'Some cars have keyless entry, but spend some time locating the sensor on the door handle that activates the keyless entry. Holding the handle away from the sensor allows you to still pull on it without unlocking the door. Don't forget to check your boot,' he said.
Jooste added that when you get to any shopping centre parking area, ensure you are not distracted when locking your car. Remaining vigilant is crucial.
'Parking in a visible location will help deter would-be thieves, and if there are security cameras, it will also be a deterrent, although some criminals are brash enough to know that video footage is inconclusive at best.'
He urged all motorists to remain vigilant and ensure that their vehicles are locked and report any unusual activity to the centre management or security immediately.
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