Range of security strategies keeps drivers safe

Although South Africa is the most dangerous place for foreign drivers in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) due to xenophobic and criminal attacks, there are hotspots elsewhere in the region. In Zambia, the threats come primarily from armed robbers and criminal gangs. Hotspots include the Chirundu-Lusaka road, Munali Hills, Kafue rail crossing, and the Chibuluma road. Foreign truck drivers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have reported ongoing incidents involving robbery, violence, and harassment by various groups, including members of the armed forces, police and civilians. There are also reports of attacks on drivers travelling through Mozambique. The Australian government warns that there is a danger of terrorist attacks in the Cabo Delgado province and in the Erati and Memba districts of Nampula province. Further north, there is a growing range of conflicts which affect the movement of freight. Security specialists recommend a range of strategies to keep drivers, vehicles and cargo safe. Measures such as driver training, physical security, live tracking and intelligent routing need to overlap. Security starts with drivers, who should be well trained on defensive driving, security risks, emergency procedures, high-risk areas along routes, and how to report suspicious behaviour. Some companies are using simulators to help with the training and to help drivers to be more aware of their surroundings and to remain vigilant. Routes, starting times and stopping points are varied where possible to limit the predictability that thieves exploit. Arrangements should also be made to provide safe parking. Albert Williams of the American Security Force (the US has had a 10% increase in cargo theft incidents since 2024) recommends using GPS-based real-time tracking, which allows companies to continuously monitor exact vehicle locations and conditions. This should be supported by automatic alerts of route deviations, unscheduled stops, or suspicious activities using geofencing technology. Drivers also need to be supported by reaction companies when an alarm is raised. Physical security on the vehicles includes strong or electronic locks, tamper-evident seals, and alarm systems on vehicles and containers. Losses also occur when cargo is loaded and unloaded. Ways of managing this include online live documentation of cargo handoffs, identity verification of authorised personnel, unique shipment pickup codes, and regular audits. With increased technology comes a relatively new threat, cybercrime, with criminals using forged paperwork and cloned websites to pose as legitimate carriers, brokers or warehouse staff to gain access to valuable freight. Using false instructions, criminals redirect shipments to unauthorised locations, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigations. ER