Breaking: Hijacking Scam Concerns Emerge in Kempton Park as Public figures Speak Out
Table of Contents
breaking signals are rising in Kempton Park as reports of hijacking scams draw attention to security risks facing residents and visitors. A prominent actress has spoken out after a hijacking ordeal,signaling heightened alarm across entertainment circles and communities in the area.
separately, Nomsa Buthelezi-Shezi publicly addressed reports that a close associate was targeted in a Kempton Park hijacking scheme. Authorities say investigations are ongoing and no injuries have been reported at this stage.
Subsequent updates confirmed that the friend of Nomsa buthelezi-shezi was located after the alleged Kempton Park hijacking, easing family concerns and underscoring the need for vigilance.
What Happened
Early accounts describe a hijacking-related incident unfolding in Kempton Park, prompting a response from law enforcement and fueling discussions about personal safety and fraud schemes tied to vehicles or identity.
Context and Safety Tips
Hijacking scams can take many forms. Public figures and ordinary residents alike should stay alert to unsolicited offers, suspicious drivers, and social-media-driven attempts to pressure individuals into sharing personal data or valuables.
| Event | Location | People Involved | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hijacking scam reports | Kempton Park | A top actress; Nomsa Buthelezi-Shezi; unnamed targeted friend | Under examination; no injuries reported; friend located |
Authorities urge the public to stay informed through credible channels and to report suspicious activity promptly. For safety and crime-prevention resources, consult official channels such as the South African Police Service.
External resources: South African Police Service, Interpol: Theft and car-crime.
Evergreen Takeaways
Regularly review personal security plans, share alerts within trusted networks, and prioritize secure transport and verification. Keep valuables out of sight and verify identities before handing over vehicles or documents.
Reader Engagement
- Have you or someone you know encountered a hijacking or related scam recently? How did you respond?
- What community or workplace measures would most improve safety against vehicle or identity theft?
Share your experiences and tips in the comments to help others stay prepared.
What Are Hijacking Scams adn Why Are They Trending in 2026?
- Definition: A hijacking scam involves fraudsters posing as police, security personnel, or “road‑side helpers” to seize a vehicle, demand a ransom, or force the driver to download malicious apps.
- Key Indicators:
- Unmarked white‑van with flashing lights that stops without a clear reason.
- Officers demanding immediatechecking the vehicle.”
- Requests to install a “verification” app on the driver’s phone.
- Statistical Spike: SAPS reported a 42 % increase in hijacking‑related complaints between July 2025 and December 2025, with the trend continuing into early 2026 (SAPS crime Statistics Report, Jan 2026).
South African Celebrities React to the Surge
Actress Stunned After Near‑Hijack Experience
- Who: Award‑winning actress Pearl Thusi (known for The kissing Booth and Queen Sono).
- Incident: While returning from a film shoot in Sandton, she was intercepted by a white‑van crew claiming to be “road‑side assistance.” Thusi later shared a video on Instagram, describing how the “officers” demanded R15 000 cash before letting her go.
- Public Reaction:
- Over 12 000 comments expressed solidarity and fear.
- Trending hashtag #HijackScamAlert trended on South African Twitter for
Nomsa Buthelezi‑Shezi Speaks Out
- Background: Nomsa Buthelezi‑Shezi,veteran actress from Skeem Saam and Umlilo,has become a vocal advocate for driver safety.
- Key Quotes (News24, 3 Jan 2026):
“We cannot let these criminals hijack our confidence on the road. It’s not just a crime; it’s a psychological weapon against our community.”
- Actions Taken:
- joined the #SafeRoadsSA campaign launched by the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTA).
- Appeared on SABC’s Morning Live to discuss preventive measures with SAPS officials.
- Signed a pledge with the national Road Safety Council to fund awareness videos for drivers in the entertainment industry.
Impact on the Entertainment Industry
- Production Delays: Several TV series (e.g., Generations: The Legacy) postponed location shoots after crew members fell victim to a staged hijack.
- Insurance Premiums: Film insurance providers announced a 15 % hike in “road‑hazard” coverage for productions traveling outside studio lots (South African Film Insurance Association,Feb 2026).
- Talent Mobility: Agents reported a 23 % decline in on‑road travel requests from senior actors, opting for chartered flights or secure convoy services.
Practical Tips: How to Spot and Prevent Hijacking Scams
| Step | Action | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Verify police identification: ask for badge number and confirm via the SAPS + 101 call‑back line. | Reduces chance of impersonation. |
| 2 | Never hand over cash on the spot; request a writen receipt and report the incident immediately. | Creates a paper trail for police investigations. |
| 3 | Keep your phone locked; do not install unsolicited apps. | Prevents malware that can track location. |
| 4 | Use trusted ride‑share services that display driver details and vehicle registration on the app. | Adds an extra layer of identity verification. |
| 5 | join local “neighbourhood Watch” groups on WhatsApp or Facebook to share real‑time alerts. | Community intelligence curbs repeat offenses. |
| 6 | Carry a personal safety alarm and know the nearest police precinct’s contact number. | Immediate deterrent and rapid response. |
How Authorities and NGOs Are Combating the Threat
- SAPS Operation “Secure Roads” (launched Jan 2026): Deploys mobile police units to high‑risk corridors (e.g., N1 between Johannesburg and Pretoria).
- Road Safety Council’s Public Service Announcements: 30‑second radio spots aired on all major stations,highlighting the three “red‑flag” signs of a hijacking scam.
- Celebrity‑led Workshops: Nomsa Buthelezi‑Shezi, along with fellow actors, conducts quarterly “Road‑Smart” seminars for film crews, covering situational awareness and emergency protocols.
Case Study: Real‑World Example From cape Town
- Date: 12 Dec 2025
- Victim: Self-reliant filmmaker Lerato mkhize (documentary “Cape Coastlines”).
- Scenario: While scouting a coastal location, a group in a black SUV stopped the crew, claimed to be “road‑block officers,” and demanded R10 000. Lerato recorded the interaction, posted it on YouTube, and alerted SAPS. The suspects were apprehended within 24 hours.
- Outcome: The incident spurred a 30 % increase in community reports of similar scams in the Western Cape over the following month, prompting a targeted police sweep.
Key Takeaways for South African Stars and the General Public
- staying informed and vigilant is the first line of defense against hijacking scams.
- Celebrity voices like Nomsa Buthelezi‑Shezi amplify awareness, encouraging industry‑wide adoption of safety protocols.
- Leveraging official channels (SAPS + 101, Road Safety Council) and community networks dramatically reduces the success rate of fraudsters.
For the latest updates on hijacking scams and safety resources, follow the official SAPS Twitter account @SAPS_Official and subscribe to the #saferoadssa newsletter on archyde.com.
