Security at OR Tambo Airport stays on high alert

The continuing peak season safety and security drive at OR Tambo International Airport continues with 30 people having been arrested until December 24.

During this operation, extensive landside, passenger terminals and airside stop and searches are conducted and thus far 2 500 people and 450 vehicles were stopped and searched.

During this disruptive operation, some electronic devices such as a laptop and cell phone were found on contracted employees. The items were confiscated and cases opened against the culprits.

In another incident, a random search operation was being conducted at an aircraft about to depart on an international flight. One individual fled the scene across the apron to avoid being searched.

He was identified through covert surveillance methods and arrested as he tried to leave the airside through a guarded point. More arrests were made in this area due to the covert surveillance method that was used.

The intensified security measures have been enabled by the integrated tactical multi-disciplinary security cluster, including South African Police Services that deployed more than 60 members and more than 75 personnel from contracted security contractors.

These operations are conducted on a random basis as part of the airport’s effort to disrupt potential criminal activity and to emphasise to employees that they must always adhere to security processes, be ethical in the execution of their duties and comply with aviation safety regulations.

Permits to work at the airport can be revoked where regulations are not followed.