SEVENTY vehicles were stolen in Bulawayo between January between January and October this year, police confirmed as they expressed concern over increasing cases of carjacking in the city.
Statistics obtained by Southern Eye on Sunday indicated that the police's Vehicle Theft Squad managed to recover 59 of the stolen vehicles, reflecting an 84% recovery rate.
According to data from the CID VTS Bulawayo, August saw the highest number of thefts, with 13 vehicles stolen, while May recorded the lowest, with just three cases.
The financial impact of these thefts is significant, with the total value of stolen vehicles amounting to US$223,255.
Of this, US$210,100 worth of vehicles was recovered.
Police in Bulawayo, revealed that Honda Fits were the most frequently targeted vehicles, with 41 of them stolen during the period.
Other models, including Toyota Hilux, Ford Rangers, and Volkswagen vehicles, were also targeted.
The Honda Fit’s popularity among thieves may be attributed to its demand on secondary markets and its perceived ease of theft.
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One notable incident occurred in July, which saw thefts resulting in losses valued at US$129,954.
Vehicles worth US$129,020, were recovered during the month under review.
Police in Bulawayo, have identified secluded parking areas as high-risk zones for vehicle thefts and urged drivers to avoid such spots, even during daylight hours.
Residents have also been encouraged to invest in vehicle security systems such as trackers, alarms, and anti-hijack devices to enhance their cars’ safety.
“People are advised to employ trackers on their motor vehicles to enable detection and recovery,” the police said.
“Install alarms and anti-hijack on cars. Desist from parking in secluded places both during day and night
“Change ownership on their vehicles within 14 days of their purchase of a motor vehicle.
“Visit CID VTS for verification of motor vehicles before purchase.”
Provincial police spokesperson Nomalanga Msebele referred Southern Eye on Sunday to national spokesperson Paul Nyathi on the matter.
Last Friday, Nyathi said police were still analysing the statistics.
On Monday, police arrested three suspects after a shoot-out linked to a series of armed robberies in Bulawayo and Gwanda between July and November this year.
The suspects aged between 18 and 22 stole a Toyoya Fun Cargo vehicle on October 1 this year.
The vehicle was recovered in Splitzkorp, Gwanda.
On November 24, they stole a Ford Ranger vehicle at Chigumira shopping centre in Bulawayo.
