Police Minister Mchunu welcomes feedback on controversial Private Security amendments

Police Minister Mchunu welcomes feedback on controversial Private Security amendments! Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu has acknowledged that the recent backlash over his draft amendments to the Private Security Industry Regulation Act (PSIRA) was exactly the reaction he had hoped for — a robust and nationwide discussion with the private security sector.

Last week, Mchunu quietly introduced a series of proposed amendments to the act without consulting key stakeholders in the private security industry, triggering widespread concern and criticism. The amendments, still in the public comment phase, aim to impose stricter controls over the types of firearms and ammunition private security firms may own and operate.

Firearms Restrictions Stir Controversy

Among the most contentious aspects of the proposed changes are the new limitations on weapons permitted for use by private security personnel. These restrictions, according to critics, could severely hamper the industry’s ability to respond effectively to the country’s high levels of violent crime.

In addition to firearm limitations, the draft amendments also introduce a heavier administrative load for companies seeking to possess or utilize certain weapons, potentially requiring new licenses, increased oversight, and more stringent compliance procedures.

Police Minister Mchunu

Mchunu, however, remains unfazed by the backlash. In fact, he welcomes it.

Mchunu: “We Wanted This Engagement”

Speaking at a press briefing earlier this week, the minister explained that the draft nature of the amendments is an invitation to dialogue, and not a final decision.

“They’ve been given a deadline. We have not yet reached that deadline. They are free to comment, make submissions, and after the deadline, we will start the actual process,” said Mchunu. “So, we welcome any openness. In fact, they are doing what we wanted them to do.”

He went on to say that the police ministry intended to stir national debate around the powers and responsibilities of private security companies, particularly in relation to public safety and law enforcement authority.

The public, along with industry stakeholders, has been given until 25 April to submit their written comments and objections to the proposed changes.

Private Security Industry Pushes Back

Private security is a multi-billion-rand industry in South Africa, employing hundreds of thousands of personnel across the country. It plays a vital role in crime prevention, particularly in areas where the South African Police Service (SAPS) is either under-resourced or overstretched.

Many in the sector argue that tighter restrictions on their capabilities — particularly regarding firearms — would be counterproductive and even dangerous.

“Let’s take the successes of the last 18 months that we’ve seen from SAPS,” said Ian Cameron, chairperson of the police portfolio committee. “In the large majority, especially with regard to very serious and violent crime, it was in collaboration with private security.”

Cameron also voiced concern about the potential for an imbalance in power, suggesting that the state should not have a monopoly on weapons. He called for more collaboration and strategic partnerships between the police and the private sector, rather than increasing separation through restrictive regulation.

Public Participation Phase Critical

As the 25 April deadline approaches, stakeholders are preparing detailed submissions, legal opinions, and case studies in a bid to convince the ministry to reconsider certain aspects of the proposed amendments.

Industry insiders believe this moment is critical not only for their own operations but for public safety as a whole, especially in a country where crime rates remain alarmingly high.

Despite the controversy, Mchunu has maintained that this process is part of democratic governance. The final version of the amendments, he says, will be shaped by input from the public and industry experts alike.

For now, all eyes remain on the submission window, with hopes that constructive engagement will yield solutions that ensure both safety and operational fairness.