Your Window, Their Target. Beat the Smash and Grab Game.

Experiencing a smash-and-grab is a traumatic event that no driver should have to endure, yet sadly, it happens daily in South Africa.

The latest crime statistics from the South African Police Services (SAPS) reveal that 19,032 cases of “theft out of or from motor vehicle” were recorded in the fourth quarter of the 2024/2025 period.

This equates to roughly 211 vehicles being broken into between January and March 2025.

Given this reality, drivers are encouraged to adopt safe habits and take preventative steps to reduce the risk of falling victim to smash-and-grab incidents.

Even if you become a target, there are still ways to protect yourself and assist law enforcement in apprehending the criminals.

Safety Tips

Tracker, a private security and vehicle recovery company, offers useful advice for motorists through an easy-to-remember acronym: SMASH.

Here’s what it stands for:

• Surprise: Criminals often rely on catching victims off guard. They quickly break a window, grab valuables, and flee within seconds, choosing locations that offer cover and quick escape routes. Sometimes, accomplices may distract drivers while others approach the vehicle. Avoid quiet, poorly lit streets     and slow traffic in risky areas to prevent being surprised.

• Microns: This refers to protective window films that, while they don’t prevent glass from breaking, keep shattered pieces together. This adds a barrier and extra seconds for the victim to react. A 200-micron two-ply film is recommended.

• Avoid: Make yourself a less attractive target. Don’t leave valuables like phones, wallets, laptops, bags, or jewelry visible inside the car—store them in the boot or compartments. Even items like jackets can tempt thieves if they suspect valuables in pockets. Park in secure, well-lit, guarded areas whenever possible.

• Safe driving: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions like texting or talking on the phone. Don’t engage with street vendors, and try to time your stops so you don’t sit idle at red lights longer than necessary. Broken glass on the road often signals a smash-and-grab hotspot, so steer clear of these areas. If you encounter obstacles, don’t stop—go around or turn back.
• Help: If you do become a victim, report the crime immediately to the nearest police station. Quick reporting aids authorities in catching offenders. You can also report anonymously by calling 08600 10111 or sending an SMS to Crime Line at 32211.

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