In a shocking turn of events, Securico’s lack of security measures has left them high and dry – financially speaking. The Bulawayo High Court has ordered Securico to cough up a whopping US$675,000 to How Mine after a daring heist involving 11.95kg of gold bullion. It seems Securico’s decision to use “soft-skin” vans instead of armored vehicles was a costly one.
The heist, which occurred on October 4, 2022, while the gold was being transported to Bulawayo, was a brazen affair. Securico’s security personnel were overwhelmed by armed robbers, who made off with the valuable cargo. The court’s verdict was scathing, with Justice Joseph Chilimbe ruling that Securico’s failure to alert the police and their own response teams during the robbery amounted to gross negligence.
Securico’s use of “soft-skin” vans instead of armored vehicles and deployment of security personnel without panic buttons were major factors in the court’s decision. It was revealed that Securico was aware of the risks involved in transporting high-value cargo but failed to take adequate precautions. While Securico’s personnel were instructed to prioritize preserving life over protecting assets, this didn’t excuse their negligence.
In the end, Securico has been ordered to pay How Mine US$675,000, plus interest at a rate of 5% per annum from October 4, 2022, until full payment is made. This case highlights the importance of robust security measures when transporting valuable goods. The court’s decision serves as a wake-up call for security companies to review their protocols and take necessary precautions to prevent such incidents in the future.
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