Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has issued a statement addressing media reports and allegations made by porters at OR Tambo International Airport, who claim they are being harassed and unfairly restricted by airport officials.
ACSA clarifies claims made by OR Tambo Airport porters
The statement follows recent coverage by IOL News, in which porters alleged ongoing abuse, victimisation, and harassment by security personnel and ACSA officials.
Porters claimed they had been targeted since December 2024, citing incidents where they were threatened with eviction and the withdrawal of their work permits.
ACSA has denied the claims, stating that porters are not employed by the company but rather operate independently within the airport premises and earn their income through passenger gratuities.
“ACSA is not involved in the hiring, compensation, or organisational structure of the porters,” the company said.
The airport operator clarified that all individuals working within the airport must adhere to national and international security protocols.
These protocols include designated work zones for porters, which ACSA says are necessary to maintain safety and order. Violations of these protocols can result in disciplinary action, including permit revocation.
“Any restrictions on their work arise from non-compliance with these security and operational guidelines, not arbitrary decisions by ACSA,” the statement reads.
While ACSA rejected allegations of mistreatment, it confirmed its willingness to work with stakeholders to address legitimate concerns, saying,
“We remain committed to working in partnership with all stakeholders to foster a fair and safe working environment.”
However, the situation remains tense.
Several porters told IOL that more than 20 of their colleagues have had their permits withdrawn without explanation.
They also claim they are no longer allowed to work at counter areas, where they typically earn more in tips, alleging that this restriction has reduced their ability to make a living.
“Things are still bad. ACSA is mistreating and harassing us almost every day,” said one porter, speaking anonymously. Another porter added,
“We have become helpless because no one is willing to help us. We have tried lawyers and political parties, but our cries are not heard.”
On Tuesday, porters staged a small picket outside the airport to raise their grievances and called on political support to intervene.
Some say they will continue working despite efforts to remove them, stating they will “not stop” until their concerns are addressed.