Valuable cargo demands top-notch security

Kevin Mayhew WHEN YOUR activities include transporting significant volumes of copper and cobalt from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambian Copperbelt to Dar es Salaam, Johannesburg and Durban the security is vital. According to spokesperson for African Cargo Services (ACS), Paul Vickers, it requires using nominated hauliers that are carefully vetted, and even truck convoys with armed escorts accompanying them if deemed necessary. “This is particularly so for trucks moving on the South Africa route, where targeted thefts are more systematic,” he said. The organisation of the trucks and convoy escorts is the responsibility of the ACS Kitwe office in Zambia which is managed by Chris Chembo. He and his staff are knowledgeable about the risks involved in metal transportation in their part of Africa. ACS is possibly the foremost provider of transport and logistics services to the metal mining and trading community in eastern and southern Africa as well as United Kingdom and European trading houses. This strong support from a UK-based parent company provides it with a base from which to remain a major force, says Vickers.