05/09/2026
[SAPS WARNS VEHICLE OWNERS AS KIMBERLEY EXPERIENCES SURGE IN MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT]
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Kimberley is concerned about a recent surge in the theft of motor vehicles in the Kimberley area, where vehicles estimated at more than R4 million have reportedly been stolen within a period of three days.
On Wednesday, 02 September 2026, a Toyota Land Cruiser was reported stolen from a shopping mall parking area in Kimberley. On Friday, 04 September 2026, two Ford vehicles, namely a Ford Ranger Wildtrak and a Ford Raptor, were also reported stolen from a shopping mall parking area in the city.
The SAPS is investigating the incidents and is following all leads to identify and apprehend those responsible.
Information has also been received alleging that a male and female suspect may be moving around shopping mall parking areas using signal-jamming devices to interfere with vehicle locking systems.
This information forms part of the ongoing investigation and members of the public are urged to report any suspicious persons or activities to the police immediately.
The Kimberley police are issuing a strong warning to vehicle owners not to assume that their vehicles are locked simply because they have pressed the remote locking button.
Criminals may use signal-jamming devices to prevent vehicles from locking properly.
Vehicle owners are urged to physically check the doors before walking away from their vehicles.
The warning comes at a particularly important time as Kimberley is expected to experience an influx of visitors over the weekend.
The Yonder Hartsfees commenced on Thursday, 03 September 2026 and concludes on Sunday, 06 September 2026. In addition, the Suzuki Griquas will face the Fidelity ADT Lions in the Currie Cup semi-final on Sunday, 06 September 2026 at 13:00 at the Suzuki Stadium in Kimberley.
With increased numbers of visitors expected at shopping malls, sports grounds and festival venues, vehicle owners and visitors are urged to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions to safeguard their vehicles and valuables.
Vehicle owners are urged to:
-Physically check that their vehicle is locked after activating the remote locking system. Do not rely solely on the flashing lights or locking sound.
-Always lock all vehicle doors and ensure that windows are properly closed before leaving the vehicle.
-Do not leave vehicles unattended while the engine is running, even for a short period.
-Avoid leaving valuable items such as laptops, handbags, electronic devices or other valuables visible inside vehicles.
-Park in well-lit and, where possible, secure areas with visible security personnel or surveillance cameras.
-Be alert to suspicious persons loitering around parking areas and report such behaviour to security personnel or the SAPS.
-Avoid stopping in isolated or poorly lit areas, particularly at night.
-If approached by a stranger while inside your vehicle, keep the windows closed or open them only slightly if necessary. Do not open the vehicle door.
-If you notice that your vehicle has not locked properly, do not leave it unattended.
-Move to a safer location or seek assistance from security personnel.
-Consider installing additional anti-theft devices, such as a gear lock, as an added layer of protection.
-Avoid unnecessary trips at night and, where possible, travel with another person.
The SAPS further appeals to members of the public to remain vigilant and not to confront suspected criminals. Rather, immediately report suspicious behaviour to the police or the relevant security personnel.
The police is also calling on anyone who may have information that could assist with the ongoing investigations to contact Detective Warrant Officer Anthony Rheeder of the Kimberley Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit on 083 538 3520.
Information can also be reported anonymously to Crime Stop on 08600 10111, while emergencies should be reported to 10111, which operates 24 hours a day.
Members of the public can also make use of the MySAPS App to report criminal activity.
All information received will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.
The SAPS urges vehicle owners and visitors to Kimberley to remain alert, take responsibility for securing their vehicles and not make it easy for criminals to target them. Prevention starts with vigilance.
https://www.saps.gov.za/newsroom/ms.php
