Toyota Corolla Cross Hijacked and Used as Escape Vehicle in KwaZulu‑Natal Crime Spree
KwaZulu‑Natal, South Africa — A Toyota Corolla Cross was allegedly hijacked and then used by armed suspects as a getaway vehicle during a brazen crime spree in the Phoenix area of KwaZulu‑Natal, according to local law enforcement accounts and eyewitness reports.
The vehicle, registered BJ27RX‑ZN, was reportedly taken by force from its owners during an armed home invasion. After seizing the SUV, the suspects fled the scene at speed, using the hijacked car to evade responding officers and continue a series of alleged criminal actions across the region.
Security footage and witness accounts on social media indicate the group used the vehicle shortly after the hijacking to escape and avoid capture, highlighting rising trends in vehicle‑related crime where hijacked cars are deployed in rapid, coordinated movements to confuse law enforcement.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) is investigating the incident as part of broader efforts to curb violent crime and vehicle hijackings in the province. Toyota Corolla Cross models have become increasingly targeted by syndicates due to their popularity, resale value, and relative ease of blending into urban and suburban traffic — traits which criminals often exploit when committing or escaping from offences.
Police have urged members of the public to be vigilant and report any sightings of the stolen vehicle or suspicious activity. Community safety groups and private security operators have also been working alongside authorities to track down hijacked vehicles and apprehend suspects involved in such crimes.
Hijacking remains a significant challenge in South Africa, with tens of thousands of vehicles reported stolen or hijacked each year — often used for other criminal activities before being abandoned or stripped for parts.
