HIGH-TECH CAR THIEVES
Police Say It’s Not New — But Many Motorists Don’t Know

Platinum Weekly newspaper | Rustenburg – A recent vehicle theft has drawn fresh attention to criminals using advanced signal-interference technology to unlock and steal cars within minutes. The affected owner says his vehicle was targeted after being followed by another car, and that the suspects used a device hidden in a laptop bag to intercept the locking signal.

According to the owner, the thieves simply relayed that intercepted signal to an accomplice, who unlocked the vehicle with ease before driving it away. A tracking attempt briefly led to a secondary location before the signal disappeared, likely after the suspects removed a cell phone left inside. The vehicle has not been recovered.

The owner also reported being told that several similar thefts occurred recently. He now wants other motorists to be aware of the technique.

SAPS spokesperson colonel Adéle Myburgh warned that the method is already familiar to investigators. “This is not a new trend. It has been happening for quite some time — criminals are simply using newer, more advanced technology,” she said.

Netstar responded through Mehluli Dube of Technical Services: “Vehicle theft syndicates do make use of advanced methods, including signal interception, jamming, and key relay techniques.” Dube added that signal-related theft is commonly used in high-risk areas and busy parking sites, often involving groups of criminals who follow a targeted vehicle. He noted that jamming of locking signals is widespread, advising motorists to physically check that their doors have locked before walking away. Netstar said stolen vehicles are typically moved to a secondary spot where tracking units are located and disabled. 

What motorists should remember

• Always check manually that your vehicle is locked.
• Be alert if you suspect you’re being followed into a parking area.
• Report any suspicious behaviour or failed locking attempts immediately.