Fewer break-ins following major security initiative

High-value goods and trafficking of drugs and people. There are many reasons why ports are broken into. The Port of Gothenburg is no exception although after a major security initiative the number of incidents has fallen dramatically.

During 2006 and 2007 the Port of Gothenburg had a serious problem with break-ins and damage. During autumn 2007 alone, the port was subject to four break-ins. On one occasion a gate was forced open and almost 300 containers were broken into. A few months later a new car was stolen from inside the dock area and six trailers were cut open. The break-ins occurred despite the high level of security, even by international standards.

"Following the break-ins we quickly decided to tighten security even further. It is vitally important that our customers feel their goods are in safe hands and that our employees feel secure at work," says Thomas Fransson, Head of Security at the Port of Gothenburg.

Three kilometres of electrified fencing, complete with alarms, has been erected in high-risk areas. Since then break-ins at these points have ceased completely. The port has acquired a mobile alarm system, a new entry system, news gates and more CCTV cameras. All employees have undergone ship and port security training (ISPS). A number of perpetrators have also been arrested due to the port's active involvement in local networks and co-operation with the authorities.

The statistics for 2008 show clearly that the security efforts have produced results. Last year, the number of thefts reported to the police was down 75 per cent on 2007. During the past 13 months the port has not had one serious break-in.

"Touch wood, the past year was very quiet and 2009 has got off to a good start. Security has been tightened significantly in a very short time even if a great deal still remains to be done," says Thomas Fransson.

For further information, please contact Cecilia Carlsson, Media Relations Officer, Port of Gothenburg, tel. +46 (0)31-731 22 45.

Factfile: Port of Gothenburg
The Port of Gothenburg is the biggest port in the Nordic region and handles a large proportion of Swedish imports and exports. The Port of Gothenburg is the only port in Sweden with the capacity to receive the largest freight vessels with a direct link to other parts of the world.