Rosebank’s rapid growth and rising affluence are now intersecting with growing safety concerns, as new data flags the suburb as an emerging hijacking hotspot. Picture Credit: InYourPocket
By Aisha Zardad
Johannesburg — Rosebank, long regarded as one of Johannesburg’s most desirable and high-end suburbs, is now emerging as an unexpected focal point in South Africa’s ongoing hijacking crisis, according to newly released crime data.
The latest South African Police Service (SAPS) statistics for the third quarter of 2025, covering the period between October and December, paint a stark picture of a crime trend that continues to grip the country’s major metros. A total of 4,778 carjackings were reported nationwide during this period, translating to roughly 50 incidents every single day.
The figures reinforce the persistent nature of hijackings in South Africa, with Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape once again recording the highest volumes. However, there are growing concerns as provinces such as the Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga begin to narrow the gap, signalling a broader geographic spread of the crime.
Certain vehicle types remain firmly in the crosshairs of criminals. Sedans, hatchbacks and coupes are still the most frequently targeted, although bakkies and panel vans are increasingly being drawn into the trend.
Fidelity Services Group CEO Wahl Bartmann warned that the pattern observed throughout 2025 is expected to continue, with temporary declines offering only brief relief before new spikes emerge.
“Recorded hijackings are expected to continue following the cyclical pattern observed in 2025, characterised by short-term declines followed by renewed increases,” said Bartmann.
While early 2026 showed a slight easing in incidents, Bartmann cautioned against any sense of complacency.
“A reduction in hijackings was recorded in January 2026, and remained subdued through February, but a gradual escalation is anticipated from March into April 2026,” he said.
Fidelity’s internal data mirrors SAPS findings, highlighting that hijackings remain heavily concentrated in urban and peri-urban zones, particularly in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.
Popular models such as the VW Polo, Hyundai Grand i10 and Nissan Almera continue to be disproportionately targeted, reinforcing long-standing patterns in vehicle-related crime.
Several established hotspots remain under scrutiny, including Soweto, Johannesburg Central, Pinetown, Inanda, Mitchells Plain and Khayelitsha. However, what is raising new concern among security experts is the emergence of Rosebank as a growing risk zone.
Traditionally associated with luxury apartments, corporate headquarters, upscale retail and a vibrant cultural scene, Rosebank’s inclusion on the list of concern marks a significant shift.
The suburb has experienced a sustained property boom in recent years, driven by younger buyers, professionals, investors and semigrants seeking convenience and lifestyle.
Data from Lightstone shows that 74% of property buyers in Rosebank are under the age of 50, with those between 36 and 49 forming the most active group. Its central location, just north of Johannesburg’s CBD, has made it particularly attractive to buyers moving from Sandton, Parktown North and Dunkeld.
Professionals working in banking, legal and consulting sectors are increasingly drawn to its “lock-and-go” lifestyle, offering proximity to offices, restaurants and retail hubs.
Pam Golding Properties Gauteng Metro regional head Mariël Burger noted that the suburb is also seeing an influx of buyers relocating from Cape Town, particularly those embracing hybrid work models.
International interest has also grown, boosted by the Gautrain airport link and Rosebank’s blend of culture, dining and entertainment.
The property market continues to show strong performance. Sectional title units dominate, with a median price of R1.9 million and particularly strong activity in the R1.5 million to R3 million bracket for modern one- and two-bedroom apartments.
Entry-level units ranging from R800,000 to R1.5 million remain highly sought-after, while two-bedroom apartments priced between R2.5 million and R4 million appeal to both investors and owner-occupiers.
At the upper end of the market, luxury penthouses command prices from R5 million to over R12 million.
“Developers are responding with energy-efficient, amenity-rich projects, yet demand continues to outstrip supply,” Burger said.
“It’s not surprising, as Rosebank offers 30 to 40% better value than Sandton while matching its lifestyle quality.”
“For instance, a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment priced around R2.5 million in Rosebank compares favourably with R3.5 million to R4 million for a similar home in Sandton.”
“This makes Rosebank one of Johannesburg’s strongest value-for-money precincts.”
However, the suburb’s growing appeal and increased activity may now be contributing to its vulnerability, as criminals shift focus toward areas with higher traffic, density and perceived affluence—turning even Johannesburg’s most polished neighbourhoods into potential targets.
