Objection to Amendment Notice 3088 of 2025 

The Middelburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry formally objects to the proposed amendments to the Private Security Industry Regulation Act under Department of Police Notice 3088 of 2025. These amendments, if implemented, will have serious negative consequences for public safety, the private security industry and the lawful owners of firearms. Below are the key reasons for our objection, supported by evidence from the Human Rights Commission and other relevant sources. 

1. Impact on Public Safety: 

The proposed restrictions on the types of firearms and equipment that private security personnel are allowed to use will significantly weaken their ability to protect citizens. South Africa is currently facing a crime epidemic and the private security sector plays a critical role in protecting communities. The disarmament of trained professionals will give criminals an unprecedented advantage, leading to an increase in crime rates and putting lives at risk. 

2. Wider implications for Lawful Firearm Owners: 

These amendments appear to be a precursor to a broader disarmament of civilians. If the state can arbitrarily disarm security professionals who undergo rigorous vetting and operate under strict regulations, it sets a dangerous precedent for disarming private citizens. This erosion of self-defence rights under the guise of public safety is unacceptable and threatens the rights of responsible gun owners. 

3. Impractical Restrictions: 

The proposed restrictions on firearms, such as limiting bolt-action rifles to environmental protection and anti-poaching and allowing semi-automatic rifles only for cash-in-transit security, fail to recognise the real threats faced by security personnel. High-risk areas such as the taxi industry require appropriate firearms to counter heavily armed criminals. These restrictions compromise the effectiveness of security operations and put lives at risk. 

4. Unnecessary Red Tape: 

The unclear rules on handcuffs and the proposal to fit firearms with tracking devices are examples of over-regulation that hinder security personnel in the fulfilment of their duties. Tracking devices are currently impractical locally due to technological limitations, high costs, privacy risks and legal issues. These impractical requirements will place a heavy financial burden on security companies and jeopardise the safety of security personnel. 

5. Absurd Competency Assessments: 

The proposed rigorous tests of visual, auditory and neurological skills of private security personnel are unrealistic and go far beyond the mark. These tests are impractical and will create unnecessary hurdles for security professionals. 

6. Empowering Criminals: 

The changes will tip the scales in favour of criminals who already handle illegal high-calibre weapons with impunity. The weakening of law-abiding security forces will ensure that criminals have the upper hand, leading to more crime and violence. Not forgetting that the riots in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and Mpumalanga were stopped mainly because private security forces used less lethal force to supplement the inadequate resources of the police. 

Human Rights Considerations: 

The Human Rights Commission has emphasised the importance of reasonable and balanced security regulations that protect public safety without infringing on the rights of individuals and businesses. The proposed amendments fail to strike this balance and instead introduce unreasonable restrictions that undermine the ability of the security sector to operate effectively. 

Conclusion: 

The proposed changes are irrational, impractical and dangerous. They will leave security personnel, businesses and individuals at the mercy of criminals. We call on PSIRA to reconsider these changes and work with stakeholders to develop regulations that strengthen the private security sector and protect public safety. 

Our recommendations: 

– Consult with security experts and industry stakeholders to understand the real threats and operational needs of the private security sector. 

– Develop regulations that enhance the capabilities of security personnel rather than disarming them. 

– Ensure that any new requirements are workable, cost-effective and do not jeopardise the safety and privacy of security professionals. 

Call to Action: 

We urge PSIRA to reject the proposed amendments and partner with the private security industry to build a safer South Africa.