SA’s top executives turn to private security amid rise in kidnappings

SOUTH African executives are increasingly turning to private security companies for tactical escorts and high-level protection as kidnappings and blue-light crimes surge, particularly in Gauteng.

- SIPHESIHLE BUTHELEZI [e-mail]

Phangela Group, a private security provider, said that demand for tactical escort services in unmarked vehicles has reached record levels as business leaders adapt to more sophisticated threats.

“Executive threats are no longer opportunistic but coordinated,” said Chris Thornhill, CEO of Phangela Group.

“We're seeing organised crime syndicates targeting business owners, directors, and high-net-worth individuals with increasing sophistication including impersonating police, using fake uniforms, and forcing mobile banking transfers under duress.”

Figures cited in recent reports show that kidnappings have more than doubled in five years, from 1 919 to 4 748 cases over a comparable three-month period. Gauteng recorded 2 499 of those incidents, followed by KwaZulu-Natal with 901 and the Western Cape with 275. Most are believed to be driven by ransom demands.