SOUTH African Airways has paid out just over R1-million in 1 283 claims for theft from baggage on the airline’s flights worldwide up to the end of September this year, says Public Enterprises Minister Jeff Radebe. Replying to a question by Rudi Heine (DA), he said SAA had paid out R1,832-million in 3 108 claims during the whole of 2000. Altogether 15 people had been arrested, and 13 convicted, in connection with the incidents. Another 45 employees had been dismissed, and nine resigned to avoid disciplinary action. Replying to another question, by Alie van Jaarsveld (DA), Radebe said four SAA employees were currently serving prison sentences for drug-related offences, while another two were awaiting sentencing. – Sapa