The value of vehicle tracking technology in the recovery of stolen motor vehicles

Abstract

In this study, the research problem sought to explore, identify and acknowledge the value of vehicle tracking technology within the South African Police Service (SAPS). National legislation in the Republic of South Africa allows the SAPS and private organisations, such as Tracker, to create partnerships to successfully combat crime, such as vehicle related crimes. Data was collected by means of a literature study, together with semi-structured interviews that were individually conducted with non-commissioned officers of the SAPS: West Rand Flying Squad. These members are deployed daily, in an operational environment, to deal with the recovery of stolen and robbed motor vehicles; they utilise vehicle tracking technology to fulfil this function. A detailed study of literature relating to national legislation, SAPS directives, media and newspaper reports as well as library resources and international studies was conducted. The research indicates the importance of vehicle tracking technology in assisting specialized units within the SAPS to successfully and efficiently track and locate stolen or robbed motor vehicles. It is evident that the use of this type of technology has become an invaluable tool to the SAPS: West Rand Flying Squad members in their daily duties. Furthermore, members at grassroots level understand and appreciate the assistance and value of technology, especially as the technology enables them to effectively recover stolen or robbed motor vehicles, and to successfully arrest the perpetrators responsible for these thefts. The recommendations made in this study may provide a number of solutions to the South African government, SAPS, insurance industry and the general public, regarding the value of vehicle tracking technology. In addition, the study indicates how this technology can effectively assist in curbing vehicle crimes and the recovery of stolen or robbed motor vehicles; in the process, recovery affects the arrests of criminals, thus saving the economy a significant amount of money due to crimes of this nature.