There was a recent attempted hijacking in Newlands West, Durban (Fosdale Road area), on Thursday evening, June 18, 2026.
According to reports from community safety groups like KZN VIP and Arrive Alive:
- Suspects in a white Toyota Etios attempted to hijack a motorist.
- The victim managed to escape unharmed.
- No injuries were reported, and the suspects fled the scene.
Residents are urged to stay vigilant, especially in the evenings as it gets dark earlier in winter. Tips include:
- Being aware of vehicles that might be following you.
- Avoiding sitting stationary in your vehicle for long periods.
- Opening/closing gates quickly.
- Driving to a safe public area, security provider, or police station if something seems suspicious rather than confronting suspects.
Newlands West has seen multiple hijacking incidents (successful and attempted) in recent months, including a notable one captured on CCTV on Chardale Road in mid-May 2026. That incident involved armed suspects and a vehicle takeover, with video footage circulating widely showing the rapid nature of the attack.
Crime in the area is an ongoing concern, with opportunistic attacks on motorists often involving multiple armed suspects in common vehicles (e.g., white Toyotas, VW Polos). Community alerts frequently highlight the need for heightened awareness.
