HOUT BAY – Popular South African grocery retailer Woolworths has temporarily suspended its same-day delivery service, Woolworths Dash, in the picturesque coastal suburb of Hout Bay, citing ongoing concerns about driver extortion and safety.
The move has raised questions about the level of crime affecting businesses operating in the area, and the effectiveness of local law enforcement in addressing these concerns.
In a statement released to the media, Woolworths confirmed the suspension, emphasizing its commitment to its delivery drivers' well-being.
“Woolworths made the difficult decision to suspend the Dash same-day delivery service in Hout Bay due to ongoing concerns around driver extortion and security. The safety of our drivers is our top priority,” the statement read.
The company added that it is actively engaging with local authorities to find a resolution, and encouraged Hout Bay residents to utilise their scheduled delivery service in the meantime.
“We continue to monitor the situation, and our team is liaising with local authorities about resolving the issues. Hout Bay shoppers are encouraged to use our scheduled delivery service in the interim, and we hope to re-introduce Dash to Hout Bay soon.”
However, the local police station commander, Lieutenant Colonel Jerome Syster, expressed surprise at the news, stating that he was unaware of any recent extortion threats targeting Woolworths Dash drivers. He did acknowledge similar incidents last year involving another delivery service, Checkers Sixty60, but confirmed that those issues were subsequently resolved through dialogue with the local taxi industry.
“The taxi industry didn’t want Checkers Sixty60 in the area, but after several meetings they operated. No one has come forward now and I would like to encourage them to come forward or call the extortion hotline 082 387 1561,” Lieutenant Colonel Syster stated.
He urged anyone with information to contact the extortion hotline directly.
Adding to the confusion, Hout Bay councillor Roberto Quintas reported that he had not received any formal reports or been informed of any active SAPS cases opened by retailers concerning extortion or harassment of delivery drivers in recent months. He confirmed a recent meeting with Woolworths management, during which he reassured them of the absence of recent reported extortion incidents and highlighted the presence of City Law Enforcement patrols.
“I was approached by Woolworths management recently to query the safety of their delivery services and assure them of no recent reports of delivery extortion and informed them that there is a dedicated visible City Law Enforcement patrolling Hout Bay 24/7,” Councillor Quintas explained.
