As part of an ongoing strategy to minimise criminal activity at principal airports, the South African Police Services (SAPS) together with all aviation security stakeholders will significantly increase the presence of members of the police at Johannesburg International Airport (JIA).
Dubbed 'Operation Octopus' at a meeting of all stakeholders, the exercise will be intelligence driven and will therefore not unduly interfere with day to day functioning of the airport. It will however include patrolling all airport areas, searching suspicious goods and persons as well ensuring that all gaps which may exist are closed immediately.
"The strength of the operation lies not in its numbers but within the coordinated operating systems it will use. Every aspect of airport security will be scrutinised and enhanced in the following months - reaffirming ACSA's reputation as an attractive gateway to Africa," Monhla Hlahla, Chief Executive Officer of ACSA, said.
SAPS Deputy National Commissioner Andre Pruis said: "This kind of integrated approach is long overdue. The time for talking is over. We must act now to ensure that perpetrators of crime are apprehended before leaving this airport."
Both the Minister of Transport Dullah Omar and Minister of Safety and Security, Steve Tshwete have given unequivocal support for the operation.
For details contact Jacqui O'Sullivan, Airports Company South Africa on 083 228 4599.
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