The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA) has expressed grave concern over a series of alarming incidents involving private security service providers (SSPs) engaging in criminal activities. The regulatory body, which oversees the private security sector in South Africa, has reiterated its commitment to maintaining the integrity and professionalism of this critical industry.
Recent events have brought to light serious misconduct within the private security sector, such as the tragic events in Nyanga, Western Cape, when individuals allegedly linked to private security companies were involved in a shooting incident resulting in fatalities and injuries.
In KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Ferrel Govender, Group CEO of Prosecure, and his brother have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a businessperson in Umhlanga.
Further, reports have emerged of private security companies engaging in extortion activities, threatening the safety and economic stability of businesses and communities nationwide. These incidents and actions undermine the trust and reliability expected of the private security industry, says PSiRA.
In response to these troubling developments, PSiRA has initiated comprehensive investigations into the incidents and is conducting compliance audits on implicated security service providers. Working in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), the authority aims to ensure that individuals and entities found culpable face strict consequences, including suspension or deregistration under the PSiRA Act.
PSiRA remains steadfast in its mission to uphold a professional and ethical private security industry. The Authority is committed to enforcing stringent compliance standards to ensure all registered security companies and personnel adhere to the highest codes of conduct. “We unequivocally condemn all acts of violence and criminality involving private security providers or their employees,” a spokesperson for PSiRA stated. “Such actions not only jeopardise community safety but also erode public trust in the industry.”
PSiRA has called on all private security companies to prioritise responsible and ethical practices. The Authority warns that excessive use of force or involvement in criminal activities will not be tolerated.
By addressing these challenges, PSiRA aims to restore public confidence in the private security sector, which serves as a cornerstone of safety and protection in South Africa. As the regulatory authority established under the Private Security Industry Regulation Act (Act 56 of 2001), PSiRA remains dedicated to safeguarding the public interest and ensuring the industry’s integrity.
Furthermore, the public is urged to report any misconduct or concerns regarding private security companies via PSiRA’s toll-free complaints helpdesk at 086 133 3850 or email at [email protected].