Hijacking at Toll Gates

Hijacking at toll gates is a growing concern in several regions, especially in parts of South Africa where criminals exploit vehicles slowing down or stopping to pay tolls. These locations create vulnerable spots due to limited maneuvering space and predictable vehicle behavior. Use the Toll Gate Calculator in South Africa before you hit the road.

• Why Toll Gates Are Targeted
• Recent Trends (South Africa as an Example)
• How to Stay Safe at Toll Gates
• If You’re Hijacked
• Reporting and Prevention
• Final Thoughts

• Forced stops: Vehicles must slow down or stop, making them easy targets.
• Isolated areas: Some toll booths are in remote areas with low security presence.
• Predictability: Criminals know drivers are likely to have wallets, phones, and sometimes cash for tolls.
• Limited escape options: Drivers are boxed in with barriers, other cars, and the toll structure itself.

• Reports have surfaced of hijackings at toll plazas along major highways like the N3, N1, and N4.
• Criminals often impersonate toll officials or create fake checkpoints.
• Incidents occur more often at night or in poorly lit/monitored booths.

Here are practical safety tips to protect yourself:

Before Reaching the Toll Gate

• Be alert: Observe your surroundings as you approach.
• Lock your doors and keep windows up, especially at night.
• Avoid distractions like mobile phones or fiddling with your wallet.
• Keep valuables out of sight.

While at the Toll Booth

• Leave a safe distance between your car and the one in front of you.
• Keep your car in gear and your foot on the brake, ready to move if needed.
• Avoid confrontations – comply if threatened. Life is more valuable than possessions.

After Passing Through

• Drive away promptly and avoid pulling over near the toll area.
• If suspicious behavior occurs, report it immediately to the authorities or toll staff.
• Use alternative routes if a toll plaza is known to be unsafe, especially at night.

• Stay calm. Try not to panic or argue.
• Avoid eye contact, but observe everything you can discreetly.
• Don’t resist unless your life is clearly in immediate danger.
• Remember key details: number of attackers, accents, clothing, vehicle make/model.

• Report incidents to SAPs (South African Police Service) via 10111.
• Use toll road apps or platforms like SANRAL’s customer care to share safety concerns.
• Consider dashcams for recording incidents.
• Advocate for better surveillance and lighting at toll gates in your area.

While toll gates are essential for maintaining national roads, they can become danger zones when security is weak. By staying vigilant and adopting smart driving habits, you reduce your chances of becoming a victim. Sharing your experiences also helps alert others and push for improvements.