Police Methods and Challenges in the Utilisation of Technology to Combat Carjacking in Selected Police Precincts in the Gauteng Province of South Africa

The pervasive influence of technology is evident across various facets of contemporary life. Within the realm of criminology, its impact is particularly notable in law enforcement and investigative procedures. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of technological interventions in addressing carjacking in South Africa remains uncertain, as evidenced by the persistent upward trend in carjacking incidents. This study thus explored police methods and the challenges associated with the utilisation of technology in combating carjacking in selected policing precincts in the Gauteng province of South Africa. The research methodology employed a qualitative approach and utilised semi-structured interviews for data collection. Research participants were drawn from selected police precincts throughout Gauteng, namely Johannesburg Central, Hillbrow, and Alexandra. The sampling strategy adhered to a non-probability framework, with participants chosen through purposive selection. The study found that various types of technological methods, systems, and devices were utilised by the police; nevertheless, several challenges exist that affect their effective utilisation. The study recommends the establishment of a crime prevention information, communication, and technology division in the South African Police Service (SAPS), among other suggestions. State the contribution of this study to scholarship.