Security Worries At OR Tambo Drive Surge In Travellers Opting For Cape Town International

Baggage theft and unsolicited approaches from individuals at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) have been cited as some of the reasons that travellers prefer Cape Town International Airport (CPT) as a travel hub over JNB.

According to the latest Tourism Trends report by BDO, CPT is emerging as a preferred gateway for SA outbound travel rather than JNB. Although convenience and long lay overs have been cited as some of the reasons, growing safety and security concerns at JNB are prompting this shift, according to travel agents.

Baggage theft

The reader comment of the week from AJ cited safety as their clients’ main concern. “The number-one reason why our clients don't want to fly via OR Tambo is baggage theft concerns. Whether it's true or not, the perception that it's a theft hub precedes it and OR Tambo urgently needs to do more to resolve this and reassure people,” said the comment.

Acsa said baggage theft was a serious challenge across the world. “Acsa has established the Airport Baggage Pilferage Prevention Working Group (ABPPWG) to identify and implement appropriate interventions across all Acsa-operated airports. A number of multidisciplinary, proactive, and reactive security interventions are being implemented under the ABPPWG to address both the predisposing and precipitating factors that may contribute to baggage pilferage incidents.”

Since April this year, nine employees from various airports had been arrested in connection with baggage-theft-related offences, stated Acsa.

Unsolicited approaches

A recent Travel News poll revealed that nearly 55% of travel agents’ clients had reported an increase in unsolicited approaches (offering assistance with baggage, transport, or parking payments) from individuals at JNB.

“There's also a general feeling of lacking security – too many people just wandering about, watching or approaching pax – sometimes aggressively – to ‘help’ with porterage or directions for a fee,” said AJ’s comment.

“Acsa Security, in collaboration with its contracted security service providers, continues to actively monitor and address the criminal behaviour,” said Acsa. The group said the specific measures and methodologies in place could not be disclosed, as doing so would be “counter-productive to ongoing prevention efforts”. The group continues to explore and implement innovative measures to combat criminal activity in and around its airport precincts.

Acsa cautions pax

In addition to the safety measures, Acsa is encouraging passengers to take precautionary steps to safeguard their belongings. “Valuable items such as jewellery, cash, electronics, and perfumes should not be packed in checked luggage. Passengers are advised to make use of available baggage wrapping services, securely lock their bags, and ensure that all luggage is clearly labelled.

“It is also important to note that several items reported as stolen are often found and safely kept at the Lost and Found facilities at OR Tambo International Airport and other Acsa-operated airports. Passengers who have misplaced items are encouraged to contact airport security to verify and reclaim their belongings. Security personnel will provide guidance on the process and requirements for reclaiming lost property,” said Acsa.