Backlash Grows Over New Private Security Regulations in South Africa

South Africa’s private security industry is sounding the alarm over sweeping new regulations that could upend the sector and weaken public safety. Proposed changes to the Private Security Industry Regulations, released by Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu on March 28, 2025, have drawn fierce criticism from key players and legal experts.

The amendments, gazetted after discussions with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA), aim to tighten firearm and weapon controls while increasing regulatory oversight. But stakeholders warn they may cripple a R45 billion industry that employs more than half a million people.

What’s Changing—and Why It Matters

Supporters of the amendments say the changes will improve accountability, reduce firearm misuse, and ensure only qualified individuals serve in armed roles. But critics argue the proposals are vague, impractical, and could leave communities less protected.

Among the most controversial changes are:

• Broader Definition of Weapons: Even handcuffs are now considered “weapons” requiring training and approval.

• Restrictions on Less-Lethal Tools: Tasers, rubber bullets, and water cannons would need a seven-day approval process—deemed unrealistic during emergencies or riots.

• Firearm Bans in Public Spaces: Armed security would be barred from malls, schools, churches, cemeteries, and hospitals—key areas that often rely on private security.

• Mandatory Physical and Psychological Testing: Security officers would undergo annual visual, neurological, and emotional assessments.

• Firearm Tracking Devices: All firearms must be tracked, and tracking providers must be government-approved.

• Ammunition Limits: Firms must hold only a “reasonable quantity” of ammo, but no definition is given.

• Investigations Lead to Disarmament: Security firms under investigation—even without formal charges—could be barred from issuing firearms to staff.

Industry Leaders Speak Out

Parliament’s Police Committee Chairperson, Ian Cameron, posted on social media that the changes could render routine armed response “effectively illegal.” Attorney Martin Hood criticized the lack of workable alternatives, saying firms would bear the brunt of cost and complexity without support.

Gideon Joubert, spokesperson for the South African Gun Owners Association and editor of Paratus, called the proposed regulations a “devastating blow” that could destabilize the entire security sector.

“These changes will significantly increase the administrative burden and severely curtail the ability of private firms to operate,” Joubert warned. “Security firms could be shut down simply by being under investigation, even without any proof of wrongdoing.”

He also questioned the practicality of banning firearms in public areas:
“How will armed response units do their jobs if they can’t patrol malls or hospitals?”

A Push for Smarter Reform

While critics support efforts to remove rogue operators from the industry, many argue that better enforcement of current laws—rather than adding red tape—is the solution.

“Criminals exploit loopholes and corruption in SAPS and PSIRA,” said Joubert. “The focus should be on prosecuting offenders, not punishing compliant firms with unworkable rules.”

The Regulator’s Response

Defenders of the amendments argue that stronger controls are necessary to prevent firearm abuse and enhance public accountability.

They say the proposed firearm tracking devices and annual assessments will improve oversight and reduce risks associated with private weapons.

Limiting semi-automatic rifles, they argue, ensures private security firms don’t overstep their boundaries as support units to law enforcement—not substitutes.

Have Your Say

The public has until April 25, 2025, to comment on the proposed changes. Submissions can be emailed to: Regulations@psira.co.za

While the debate continues, what’s clear is that the proposed amendments have struck a nerve. Whether they result in smarter oversight or unintended chaos remains to be seen.

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