Visible policing in the rail system had led to a decrease in reported crimes by 13 percent in 2007/2008 compared to 2006/2007, Transport Minister Jeff Radebe said on Tuesday.

In a speech prepared for delivery at the Eastern Cape Rail Conference in Port Elizabeth, Radebe said "major strides" had been made to improve security on railways.

He said more than 1 700 police personnel had already been introduced into the system and visible policing had led to the decrease in crime.

"I am confident that this kind of improvement will continue to promote a safe a reliable rail service."

He said the initiatives would also allow rail operators to win their battle against cable theft, which at times rendered them ineffective and caused financial losses. - Sapa