Greater industry collaboration is critical to tackle the threat of violent cargo crimes in South Africa, says the Transported Asset Protection Association (Tapa).
The global security network for everyone in the supply chain is calling on businesses across the country to share intelligence on cargo thefts and criminal attacks on facilities and trucks. “Collaboration between like-minded security professionals is our greatest asset in staying one step ahead of organised criminals who see supply chains as easy, low risk targets,” says president and CEO of the global security network’s Europe, Middle East & Africa (Emea) region, Thorsten Neumann.
Tapa will be promoting the use of its security standards designed to increase the resilience of manufacturing and logistics operations as well as to protect employees at its 2019 South Africa Regional Conference, which takes place in Gauteng on July 26.
There is significant under-reporting of cargo crimes in South Africa, which is the case in many other countries in Emea. “But the intelligence we do have provides a very clear understanding of the modus operandi used by criminals to steal products from facilities, parked trucks and while vehicles are en route.
“The direct and indirect losses from these attacks can be hundreds of thousands of euros per incident, not to mention threats to the safety of employees. In May, one truck driver was killed when his vehicle was forced off the road in the Western Cape in a crime that saw the offenders steal a shipment of clothing and footwear products valued at more than €156 000.”
The one-day conference at Emperor’s Palace is free of charge to Tapa Emea members. A limited number of places are available for non-members at a cost of R1 780 + VAT per delegate. For further information email info@tapaemea.org
