Security firm found a
loophole where cargo
leaves the harbour
IT'S NO longer a tale of thieves rushing in where angels fear to tread when containers are transported from port to destination, says Guardforce International sales manager Dalene Hind.
I think the baddies are really starting to show us respect as a result of the new systems we have been implementing to thwart their activities, she says.
We found a loophole at the harbours which we have now plugged, and it is working. When a container came out of the depot it was released by customs, but there was no check on it from that point until it reached its destination.
Who is to say what happens when a driver stops overnight, leaves his vehicle to get refreshments? That is where we have stepped in. This month we opened offices in Durban and Cape Town and our officials now check the seal numbers and take down the registration number of the vehicle, as well as the driver's name and his identity number.
At final destination we go through the checking once again. There are instances where huge shipments are involved. This means going into the bonded warehouse and doing inventory checks on a daily basis. We monitor the unpacking of full container loads, supervise the unloading and keep a check on the items throughout their journey.
Clients have responded with full satisfaction to the service, says Hind. It has meant an entire logistical chain where everyone has to play a part.
We have been given good support by customs people and the harbour authorities. I think Portnet has realised that they have lost face in the past as a result of the heavy theft figures, and having the monopoly on port operations as they do, they are now prepared to accept our efforts in good faith, mainly because we are represented at the two biggest ports.
We have taken the same steps at Johannesburg International airport, and can arrange a similar service at the lesser airports and harbours where needed.
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