Equity Aviation Services will no longer provide ramp-handling services at Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) airports after Judge Justice Makhanya on Friday dismissed with costs an application by Equity to continue its services, said Acsa spokesperson Solomon Makgale.

Equity had applied to continue its services either until a review had been completed of the termination of its contract or until a third possible ramp-handling licence was issued.

"Equity will continue to service its clients, with the exception of South African Airways [SAA], until 29 February 2008. Acsa has granted Swissport SA a temporary licence, on a month-to-month basis, to provide ramp-handling services to SAA only," said Makgale.

He said operations may encounter "challenges" during the take-over of the operation from Equity. "SAA, Swissport and all other relevant stakeholders will work with us to ensure a smooth transition and find appropriate solutions."
full story from M&G here
This little bit has been long overdue, I reckon.
Acsa had deployed extra staff at operation centres and baggage areas, and Makgale said there would be an increase in safety and security officers, especially police, on the air side and in areas where baggage was handled.
Theft from baggage has been a very real problem. I just have to wonder though if changing contractors is going to solve it.