TT Club & BSI, a mutual insurance association providing liability insurance and risk management services to companies, recently released a report saying that the COVID-19, combined with blockade and the recession, had led to a sharp increase in cargo stolen in South Africa day by day.

South Africa ranks first in the world, according to BSI's estimate of cargo stolen losses. Among them, Johannesburg and its surrounding provinces, are the main areas of stolen goods.

Figures show a significant increase in cargo stolen in South Africa in the first half of 2020. Cross-border truck congestion caused by the epidemic, as well as slower customs clearance for cargoes, have made goods more vulnerable to be stolen, the report claimed.

"In South Africa and elsewhere, goods stolen has continued to affect business operations and disrupt supply chains, which should be fully realized by companies. Safety awareness and proactive risk management are necessary steps to create a secure supply chain." the TT Club expressed.

David Fairnie, BSI's principal consultant, added, "This report details how to address this risk in South Africa and provides precautionary measures, including screening staff, implementing safety management systems and ensuring safety in the parking lot, etc., which will help to achieve a safer supply chain."