Proposed amendments to South African Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) regulations have sparked major concerns within the security sector, with industry stakeholders saying the amendments threaten to destabilise the sector. Gazetted on 28 March 2025, these changes could impose severe restrictions on private security firms, significantly affecting their ability to operate.
One of the most contentious aspects of the proposals is the new restrictions on the issuing of firearms. The amendments state that security firms that are under investigation would be prohibited from issuing firearms to their security officers. The South African Gun Owners association believes the legislation is “extremely broad” and would result in businesses being unable to operate. They could be effectively shut down based solely on an allegation, as the restriction applies under any investigation, even for suspected offences or violations.
Similarly, security officers may be barred from carrying firearms in public spaces unless they comply with extensive new requirements, which security officers say would hinder them from providing protection in locations such as shopping malls, hospitals, schools, and residential areas.
Another provision relates to ammunition limits, requiring firms to issue a “reasonable quantity” without defining what constitutes a reasonable quantity. The SA Gun Owners Association says the lack of clear guidelines creates uncertainty and the potential for arbitrary enforcement.
Further complicating matters, the amendments demand that all armed security officers undergo annual medical, psychometric, and psychiatric evaluations at their employer’s expense, without specifying who qualifies to conduct these assessments or what criteria must be met. This would impose a significant financial and logistical burden on security firms.
The regulations further restrict the use of semi-automatic rifles, which could weaken security teams tasked with high-risk operations, such as protecting mines, warehouses, and retail complexes. The use of semi-automatic rifles would only be permitted to officers providing cash-in-transit services, along with those guarding critical infrastructure or providing anti-poaching services. Another impractical requirement mandates that all firearms be fitted with tracking devices, despite no such technology being commercially available.
Furthermore, several less-lethal tools, including rubber bullets, water cannons, and tasers, would be prohibited unless firms obtain specific exemptions through a complex application process. Additionally, the Association noted that “Tasers”, as listed in the amendments, refer to a specific brand of “conductive energy device”, and is not the general term used for the devices. Handcuffs would also require registration with the regulatory authority.
Critics argue that rather than enhancing oversight, these amendments place an excessive administrative and financial burden on an already heavily regulated industry. Instead of targeting rogue operators who exploit corruption within law enforcement agencies, many are arguing that the proposed changes could cripple legitimate firms, leading to job losses and a less secure society.
The deadline for public comments on these proposals is 25 April 2025.
