Action Society has submitted its official comment on the draft amendments to the regulations under the Private Security Industry Regulation Act to the Director of Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA), warning against the proposed amendments, stating they could severely compromise public safety across South Africa. While supporting efforts to improve accountability in the private security sector, Action Society explains that the draft regulations—if enacted in their current form—would disempower essential security providers and leave vulnerable communities dangerously exposed.
South Africa’s private security sector plays a critical and irreplaceable role in bridging the gap left by an under-resourced police force, especially in high-crime areas. Action Society argues that the proposed amendments introduce vague legal definitions, violate due process rights, and impose impractical restrictions—particularly on tactical response units tasked with responding to violent crimes, gang activity, and incidents of gender-based violence. “These units are often the only line of defence in communities where state policing is ineffective or absent,” said Action Society spokesperson Juanita du Preez. “Disarming them is not just dangerous—it’s irresponsible.”
Action Society is calling for the immediate withdrawal of the draft regulations and the launch of a transparent, inclusive redrafting process. Action Society urges the government to engage with civil society, private security stakeholders, and affected communities to develop a balanced regulatory framework that maintains oversight without sacrificing operational capacity. “This is a public safety issue, not just a policy debate,” du Preez added. “Regulations should protect lives, not endanger them.”
