Proposed gun laws put public safety at risk, says private security firms
Ballito security experts are warning that proposed changes to South Africa's firearm regulations could cripple the private security industry and place public safety at risk.
Frank Labidi, CEO of IPSS Security, voiced strong opposition to amendments recently tabled by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu under the Private Security Industry Regulation Act. The proposed changes – published on March 28 – aim to tighten control over firearms and increase regulatory oversight of private security operations.
However, Labidi believes the amendments were introduced without proper consultation and could have serious unintended consequences.
'These regulations have been drafted without any meaningful engagement with the security industry. They are illogical, severe, and will affect every citizen in this country,' he said.
The proposed changes would prohibit private security officers from carrying weapons, including non-lethal tools such as rubber bullets, tasers, tear gas and handcuffs, in public areas like schools, malls, taxi ranks, hospitals and stadiums.
Labidi argues that private security companies play a critical role in supporting law enforcement, particularly during moments of crisis, such as the July 2021 unrest, when private security firms were instrumental in protecting communities from looting across KZN.
On the North Coast, Ballito was protected by a combined force of residents and security companies, while the surrounding towns of Tongaat, Shakaskraal and KwaDukuza were quickly overwhelmed.
'Under the new rules, security firms would need to apply for permits seven days in advance just to carry firearms. That's unworkable in emergency situations and would leave the public vulnerable.
'The new regulations impose significant restrictions and burdens. This also burdens the police force, who are understaffed and over-worked.'
He warned that the regulations could also devastate the private security sector, predicting that up to 300,000 jobs could be lost if half of the country's firms are forced to shut down.
'Will the minister employ additional cops because there will be no security officers? The answer is no!'
Attorney and director at Marshall Security, Dave Campbell, agreed with Labidi, saying that whoever drafted the regulation does not know what they are doing. 'It is an unworkable system. If riots had to happen again, the criminals would need to give us written notice so we can apply for weapons to protect the public,' he said.
'The public relies on private security for safety, not the cops; we protect the police. How can we respond to armed criminals without weapons?'
The proposed regulations are open for public and stakeholder comment at freesa.org.za until April 25.
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