The South African Police Service (SAPS) has implemented a freight industry stabilisation plan for the Western Cape designed to improve safety and security in the freight sector.
According to lieutenant colonel Michael Rhoodie, this is aimed at preventing, combatting and investigating specific crimes targeting the freight industry.
Rhoodie said SAPS had identified several hot spots where incidents were more likely to occur. This included Beaufort West, Da Gamaskop, Milnerton, Tygerberg and Worcester.
“There are also specific places along the N1, N2 and N7 that we are focusing on where we have seen a particular need for increased policing.”
According to Rhoodie truck stops in Beaufort West, Bluedowns, Marine Drive in Cape Town, Da Gamskop, Eden, Vredendal, the Winelands and Worcester are also considered hotspots and police have been instructed not only to increase visibility at these stops, but also to take action as and when required. “Crime intelligence is increasingly being gathered to assist police members on the ground to address criminal elements targeting the freight sector.”
He said the ultimate goal was to prevent crimes from happening.
“In terms of corruption we are asking the industry to assist us and come forward with any incidents that occur. Do not keep quiet if you are the victim of a corrupt police officer,” he said. “It is the only way we can address the problem. Also, if cases are not investigated or police are not doing their jobs, we need the freight industry to inform SAPS management so that we can rectify the situation. We need to collaborate and work together to improve the situation.”
