Safety at OR Tambo International Airport a major concern

Safety at OR Tambo International Airport has been severely comprised in the last few weeks with reports of criminal activity on the increase.

Travellers who arrive late at the airport have complained to the DA that they felt unsafe walking to the parking garage and to catch a taxi-cab.

As a National Key Point I have been alarmed at the very little visible SAPS and Metro Police presence, this despite the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department having a satellite station based at the Airport.

I have been followed to my car on three occasions and in one instance I was accosted by a group of young men asking for money.

Travellers are often followed from the airport and then hi-jacked and attacked upon arrival at their destination. Last Saturday an Uber-driver was hi-jacked and shot fatally at the Airport.

The safety of travellers who access the airport should be a priority 24/7.

I have discussed this matter with the Gauteng Community Safety MEC, Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane, and will now request an urgent intervention in writing.

Gauteng is the number one business travel destination in the country, and with this reputation, safety at our main port of entry to the province must be prioritised.

Statement issued by Michele Clarke MPL, DA Gauteng Spokesperson on Community Safety, 20 November 2016