Police call for industry input to beat hijacking scourge

Setting up a comprehensive database around truck hijackings and other related incidents is a major priority for the South African Police Service. According to Gauteng police spokesman, Colonel Eugene Opperman, while they have already started to create an extensive database, it is imperative that the transport industry join hands with the police if the province really wants to break the back of escalating crime. “We want to know everything about hijackings and incidents involving trucks – be it a heist or a hijacking, or just an attempt. We want to know where it happened, who was involved, how did the hijacking or attempted heist transpire, where did it happen – absolutely all information is vital.” According to Opperman, information around the cargo is just as important. “This information forms an integral part of the intelligence. The more we know, the more we can track and trace people, identifying hot spots and specific cargo that is being targeted.” Truck hijackings have been an increasing crime, not just in Gauteng (where the problem is more prevalent) but also across the country. “The more information we have on hijackings, the better we can police,” says Opperman. “We have also implemented a rapid response system and the moment we get information that a signal from a truck has been lost or that an owner is worried about the whereabouts of the truck, we will send out a response unit.” Opperman says it is all about being able to react immediately. “The SAPS Organised Crime Unit is taking on the responsibility of investigating truck hijackings. We are determined to break the back of this crime, which is costing the economy millions.” Already areas such as the N3 near Heidelberg, the R21 towards Witbank and N12 towards Potchefstroom have been identified as areas often targeted for the hijacking of trucks. According to Lorinda Nel, national project manager for Business Against Crime, the aim is to bring all the role-players on board. “As business we must work with the police and a database with all the information will allow not just companies to be able to be proactive, but also go a long way in helping police with their investigations.”