Transporting high-value cargo in South Africa presents a daunting set of challenges and risks, with organised crime syndicates emerging as the foremost threat.These criminal networks meticulously target specific commodities, often arranging their sale even before the cargo is hijacked, says Johan Robinson, business development consultant at SecureOne. “The precarious socioeconomic climate, marked by soaring unemployment rates exceeding 30%, exacerbates the issue, making virtually all shipments susceptible to theft, particularly valuable food items like fresh meat that now loom large on the criminal agenda.”Speaking to Freight News, Robinson said high-value cargo transport faced significant risks, including crime syndicates infiltrating logistics providers such as clearing/forwarding agents, transporters, and drivers. “Opportunistic criminals pose another substantial threat, taking advantage of political unrest and using it as cover for their illegal activities. The looting of trucks and depots, often masquerading as civil unrest, has become increasingly common. Moreover, these opportunistic criminals frequently target trucks involved in accidents or breakdowns along the N3, with the intent of looting cargo and robbing drivers.”He says it is critical for cargo owners to do in-depth risk assessments to point out areas of concern prior to moving goods. “It is also a powerful tool to use when putting risk mitigation programmes together. The risk assessment should also include a transporter and driver risk profile, route and area analysis, as well as a security analysis.”According to Robinson, technology is increasingly being used in the fight against crime. “Tracking technology is at the forefront of combatting cargo-related crimes such as hijackings. The effective use of tracking technology is, however, paramount and service providers must know how to compensate for countermeasures such as signal jammers and how to use that threat to their advantage.“ Te c h n olo g y like GPS tracking units capable of asset protection are commonly used in combination with high security locking systems for containers and closed body trucks. Armed escorts are also used in conjunction with technology. For this to be effective the emphasis must be on proactive measures as opposed to the past reactive approach to incidents.”Just as important, says Robinson, is the vetting of all service providers. “The responsibility for ensuring security often falls on the freight company, highlighting the importance of having reliable industry partners who offer effective risk management solutions. Furthermore, staying informed about industry changes, both in terms of risks and solutions, is crucial. Continuous research and development play a pivotal role for any service provider because criminals and their tactics evolve over time. It is the direct duty of risk management companies to supply freight companies with up-to-date products, services, and strateg ies.”Robinson emphasised that as a value-added risk management company, SecureOne remained committed to staying up to date with industry developments, ensuring it delivered innovative products and services that aligned with the ever-evolving demands of the sector.
