Pilferage persists despite access control

KEVIN MAYHEW OVERALL AIRPORT security at Johannesburg International Airport has improved - along with access to airside facilities - but the problem of pilferage remains a concern, according to sales and marketing manager of Guardforce, Richard Poulton. Guardforce - which has its own airside warehouse and bulk facility at Johannesburg International - specialises in securing both valuable and vulnerable products for inbound and outbound freight traffic. It also offers a distribution centre, providing bonded, transit shed and duty paid storage facilities. A certified refrigeration unit and a heliport capable of handling helicopters and aircraft up to Gulfstream V size, complete the portfolio of available facilities. Plans to establish facilities at other major airports around South Africa are in the pipeline. “There has been a definite improvement in the past year in respect of access to the airport. The inauguration of the Super South Gate and improvements to the North Gate by ACSA have markedly enhanced the access control of vehicles and personnel entering or leaving the airside area of the airport. However, there are still weak links in the supply chain which make high value products targets for thieves,” explains Poulton. “Pilferage does occur, particularly in certain areas where access control is substandard and where insufficient surveillance is maintained.” He says Guardforce’s main cargoes are classified as either valuable, such as gold, diamonds and banknotes or vulnerable high value items such as cellphones, cameras and pharmaceutical goods. “Organised syndicates as well as opportunistic thieves continue to operate at the airport and constant vigilance is required to prevent theft,” he added.