Published on: Jul 23, 2026

Car remote jamming syndicates operate across the City of Cape Town, commonly targeting shopping centres and other busy public parking areas by using radio interference to prevent a vehicle from locking when the driver’s remote is pressed. The driver walks away believing the vehicle is secure, when in fact it has been left unlocked. As vehicle crime has evolved, technologies have been developed to detect possible remote jamming. These systems monitor the surrounding radio environment and alert security personnel when unusual radio interference is detected.

Why Isn’t It That Simple?

Detecting radio interference is only part of the challenge. Modern shopping centres are busy radio environments, with Wi-Fi networks, payment terminals, access control systems and many other wireless devices operating simultaneously. While these systems can identify unusual radio activity, they cannot determine which device, or which individual, is responsible for generating the signal.

Every alert requires a trained security officer or Public Safety Officer to respond, assess the area and identify suspicious behaviour before any further action can be be taken. Accurately identifying the source of radio interference remains one of the key challenges with these technologies.

While detection technology continues to improve, the most effective protection remains a few simple habits before walking away from your vehicle.

When leaving your vehicle:

• Always physically check that your vehicle is locked by pulling on the driver’s door handle before walking away.
• Keep valuables out of sight. Avoid leaving laptops, handbags, wallets, cellphones or other valuable items inside your vehicle.
• Stay aware of your surroundings. If you notice suspicious individuals loitering near parked vehicles or behaving unusually, consider moving to another parking area or alert shopping centre security.
• If your vehicle doesn’t lock on the first attempt, don’t ignore it. Lock it again, check the door and, if you’re still concerned, relocate to another parking area.

Earlier this year in April, a Welgemoed resident’s gym bag was stolen from a vehicle parked outside a local coffee shop. Because the theft was reported promptly, the Welgemoed CID Control Room was able to review CCTV footage and identify the suspect vehicle. The vehicle registration was shared through the Western Cape Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) network, where it was later detected by SAPS in Kuils River. SAPS officers stopped the vehicle, recovered the stolen property and returned it to its owner.

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While every incident is different, this case demonstrates how early reporting can significantly improve the chances of a successful investigation.

If you suspect your vehicle has been targeted or discover that items have been stolen, report the incident to  the shopping centre security and notify the Welgemoed CID Control Room on 086 1212 315 as soon as possible. Prompt reporting may assist with CCTV review, information sharing with security partners, including the Western Cape LPR network, and follow-up investigations.

While security technology continues to evolve, one simple habit remains one of the most effective ways to protect yourself: always physically check that your vehicle is locked before walking away.

Welgemoed CID Management

Welgemoed CID operates in alignment with the City of Cape Town’s core service delivery and governance pillars. For operational assistance or urgent matters, residents are encouraged to save the Welgemoed CID Control Room number: 086 1212 315