Acsa slams claims of security capacity gaps amid allegations of staff poaching

AIRPORTS Company South Africa (Acsa) has dismissed allegations that it lacks the capacity to manage security checkpoints at its airports, particularly passenger and baggage screening points, following reports that the entity has been informally recruiting private security staff to plug staffing gaps.

- BANELE GININDZA

The claims emerge in the wake of serious security breaches last year, most notably an incident in which a passenger departed from OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) and was later found in possession of two training hand grenades upon arrival at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Workers employed by private security firms have alleged that ACSA has been "poaching" experienced personnel to work at screening checkpoints, despite internal policies that only Acsa-branded uniforms should be visible at these points. Those left behind at private firms say the practice has resulted in staff shortages, forcing remaining workers to take on double shifts without additional compensation.