CMY3706 Assignment 1
(COMPLETE ANSWERS)
Semester 2 2025 (612140)-
DUE 13 August 2025
For assistance contact
Email:
, Causes and Motives for Vehicle Hijackings
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Definition of Vehicle Hijacking
3. Causes of Vehicle Hijackings 3.1. Socio-Economic Factors 3.2. Criminal Opportunity
and Modus Operandi 3.3. Demand for Stolen Vehicles and Parts 3.4. Organized Crime
Syndicates
4. Motives for Vehicle Hijackings 4.1. Financial Gain 4.2. Use in Other Crimes 4.3.
Personal Use/Joyriding 4.4. Retaliation/Intimidation
5. Conclusion
6. List of References
1. Introduction
Vehicle hijacking represents a significant and pervasive form of violent crime, particularly
prevalent in regions grappling with socio-economic disparities and sophisticated criminal
networks. Unlike simple vehicle theft, hijacking involves direct confrontation with the victim,
often escalating the potential for physical harm or psychological trauma. Understanding the
underlying causes and diverse motives behind this criminal phenomenon is crucial for
developing effective prevention strategies and for informing law enforcement efforts. This essay
will delve into the multifaceted factors that contribute to vehicle hijackings, exploring both the
systemic causes that create fertile ground for such crimes and the specific motivations that drive
individuals and syndicates to engage in them.
2. Definition of Vehicle Hijacking
Vehicle hijacking, in its simplest form, can be defined as the unlawful seizure of a motor vehicle
from its owner or driver by force or threat of force. This distinguishes it from vehicle theft,
which typically occurs when the vehicle is unattended. Hijacking involves a direct interaction
between the perpetrator(s) and the victim(s), often at gunpoint or knifepoint, making it a crime of
violence as much as a property crime (Burton, 2004). The primary objective is the acquisition of
the vehicle itself, though other valuables may also be stolen during the incident.
3. Causes of Vehicle Hijackings
The causes of vehicle hijackings are complex and interconnected, stemming from a confluence
of socio-economic, environmental, and criminal-specific factors.
3.1. Socio-Economic Factors
High levels of unemployment, poverty, and inequality are frequently cited as root causes for
various forms of crime, including hijacking. In environments where legitimate economic
opportunities are scarce, individuals may resort to criminal activities as a perceived means of
(COMPLETE ANSWERS)
Semester 2 2025 (612140)-
DUE 13 August 2025
For assistance contact
Email:
, Causes and Motives for Vehicle Hijackings
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Definition of Vehicle Hijacking
3. Causes of Vehicle Hijackings 3.1. Socio-Economic Factors 3.2. Criminal Opportunity
and Modus Operandi 3.3. Demand for Stolen Vehicles and Parts 3.4. Organized Crime
Syndicates
4. Motives for Vehicle Hijackings 4.1. Financial Gain 4.2. Use in Other Crimes 4.3.
Personal Use/Joyriding 4.4. Retaliation/Intimidation
5. Conclusion
6. List of References
1. Introduction
Vehicle hijacking represents a significant and pervasive form of violent crime, particularly
prevalent in regions grappling with socio-economic disparities and sophisticated criminal
networks. Unlike simple vehicle theft, hijacking involves direct confrontation with the victim,
often escalating the potential for physical harm or psychological trauma. Understanding the
underlying causes and diverse motives behind this criminal phenomenon is crucial for
developing effective prevention strategies and for informing law enforcement efforts. This essay
will delve into the multifaceted factors that contribute to vehicle hijackings, exploring both the
systemic causes that create fertile ground for such crimes and the specific motivations that drive
individuals and syndicates to engage in them.
2. Definition of Vehicle Hijacking
Vehicle hijacking, in its simplest form, can be defined as the unlawful seizure of a motor vehicle
from its owner or driver by force or threat of force. This distinguishes it from vehicle theft,
which typically occurs when the vehicle is unattended. Hijacking involves a direct interaction
between the perpetrator(s) and the victim(s), often at gunpoint or knifepoint, making it a crime of
violence as much as a property crime (Burton, 2004). The primary objective is the acquisition of
the vehicle itself, though other valuables may also be stolen during the incident.
3. Causes of Vehicle Hijackings
The causes of vehicle hijackings are complex and interconnected, stemming from a confluence
of socio-economic, environmental, and criminal-specific factors.
3.1. Socio-Economic Factors
High levels of unemployment, poverty, and inequality are frequently cited as root causes for
various forms of crime, including hijacking. In environments where legitimate economic
opportunities are scarce, individuals may resort to criminal activities as a perceived means of
