Cash-in-transit firms must tighten up

Cash-in-transit companies need to tighten their security measures to make heists more difficult or even impossible, says Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa.

"We need to ensure these companies take seriously their responsibilities to protect, not only their clients but their guards and the public who are affected by cash in transit heists," he said in a statement released after a banking and security forum in Pretoria.

Cash-in-transit robbers often used inside information when planning their heists.

"In the majority of attacks the provision of this information is crucial to the success of the robbery."

Mthethwa was at the forum, also attended by cash-in-transit companies and other businesses, to discuss cash risk management and to address the security risks facing them.

He spoke about developing and implementing laws aimed at reducing the vulnerabilities in the industry and setting minimum standards for the companies.

"We cannot address robberies simply by arming the guards who transport cash.

"These heists, like the vast majority of armed robberies, have the acquisition of cash as the main motivation behind the robbery."

Although the police were making inroads by arresting some of the heist ringleaders, it was important for the industry to address its own risks and to implement preventative measures.

The ministry would also talk to retailers, small businesses and cash businesses to see what could be done to reduce the risks across the entire spectrum of businesses affected by cash robberies.

Earlier this year, Mthethwa said that the number of heists had dropped over the festive season.

However, media reports indicate that they are still taking place.

On Tuesday, a robber committed suicide, one was wounded and three others were arrested after a cash-in-transit robbery in Krugersdorp.

A man was wounded in a shootout between police and robbers in Richard's Bay on Wednesday, when five KwaZulu-Natal police officers were arrested for alleged involvement in cash-in-transit heists and corruption.

In January, three armed robbers escaped with cash after disarming guards in Lusikisiki.