Zero-tolerance approach ‘critical’ as cargo theft spikes

Despite Covid-19 lockdowns worldwide restricting the movement of people and vehicles, recent research by the Transported Asset Protection Association’s (Tapa) Incident Information Service reveals that over ¤85 million of products were stolen from air, road, sea and rail freight supply chains in 46 countries in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (Emea) region in the first half of 2020.  Experts predict a continued increase in cargo theft as syndicates continue to become more sophisticated in their operations. To minimise supply chain disruption and keep cargo and people safe, companies need to implement and monitor best practices. In light of this ‘new normal’, there are several practical steps companies can take to reduce risk, according to World Net Logistics chief executive officer Dirk Goedhart.

1.  People safety first: There is no amount or value of cargo worth risking people’s lives for. We constantly train our team and have ongoing awareness campaigns around how to react should our people ever be in a compromised position.
2.  There are absolutely no guarantees. At some point your organisation will be targeted, whether it is by organised crime syndicates or opportunists. Make sure you partner with a reputable company that has the experience, expertise and resources to move high-value cargo.
3. In tough times it is very easy to resort to cutting corners in an attempt to save costs. We urge companies to refrain from doing this, specifically given the hardships that will play out in the next 12 to 18 months.
4. As the challenge is more local than global, ensure that your freight is transferred to a high-security facility as soon after aircraft touchdown as is practically possible.
5. Ensure strict adherence to the vetting of personnel who are expected to deal with high-value cargo.
6. Be aware of the policing mechanisms and forums that deal with organised crimes and keep your finger on the pulse.
7. Make sure that your insurance policies are adequate and are updated to include your specific requirements. Adhere to what is prescribed in order to have a safety net.
8. The reaction time and speed at which incidents are followed up and investigated is directly linked to the successful recovery and outcome of any incident that occurs.Goedhart believes that the key to an efficient logistics system is that it is robust enough to deal with the daily threats and risks in the supply chain, internally and externally. Besides adhering to the statutory security requirements when it comes to the movement of goods, World Net Logistics has a zero-tolerance approach to security in all of its facilities, he says. “We spare no expense when it comes to the safety and security of our people and our clients’ cargo. On site, we have armed guards patrolling 24/7, vacuum gates for additional access control, a manned control room with highly trained staff, security checks with metal detectors, and over 200 monitored CCTV cameras. These measures are necessary to combat organised crime, as well as opportunistic criminal activity, both of which may well be on the increase in the current tough economic climate. The key to successful risk management is vigilance. “We are constantly looking at new and innovative ways to reduce risk and ensure the security and integrity of our customers’ shipments,” adds Goedhart. “It’s an ongoing process as syndicates become more and more sophisticated.”

INSERT: “The key to successful risk management is vigilance.” – Dirk Goedhart