The Alliance Between SAPS and Private Security: A New Approach to Public Safety

14 Oct 2024

Since the 1990s, the relationship between the South African Police Service (SAPS) and private security has been complex. As crime rates rose, so did the demand for private security services, driven by a perception that the police alone couldn’t meet the public's needs. Historically, this led to a divide between SAPS and private security, which remained until recently. In his latest address Police Minister Senzo Mchunu emphasised the importance of partnerships between SAPS, private security, and community organisations, stressing that fighting crime requires teamwork. This marks a promising shift away from past distrust.

As South Africa continues to develop, with more shopping malls and private spaces, the role of private security has become more important. People often turn to private security when they feel the police are not as effective, which can create a sense of a “gap” in policing. 

A partnership between SAPS and private security could bring many benefits. For example, private security can act as the “eyes and ears” of SAPS by reporting incidents and keeping an eye on neighborhoods. This is already being tested through the Eyes and Ears Initiative (E2), an initiative that Excellerate Services is a member of, which allows SAPS and private security to share information and work together. Programs like E2 can be a learning opportunity, helping both sides to grow and strengthen their partnership. Such teamwork could lead to faster response times and safer communities. Excellerate COO, Clint Phipps, shared his optimism, saying, “It’s a positive step in the right direction, moving beyond past fears and distrust.” Many people believe that collaborations like this are key to reducing crime in South Africa.

The Eyes and Ears (E2) Initiative brings together SAPS, Business Against Crime South Africa (BACSA), and the Private Security Industry (PSI). Through E2, private security can share information with SAPS’s Provincial Operational Command Centre (POCC) and receive updates from them. PSI representatives, supported by BACSA, work at the POCC around the clock, using a communication platform that combines Push-To-Talk technology with a Telegram/WhatsApp group for smooth information sharing. Participation in E2 is voluntary and companies cover their own costs. E2 does not change the specific roles or powers of SAPS and private security but helps them work together more effectively. 

“Excellerate Services is proud to be part of this initiative as it demonstrates our commitment to proactive security and collaboration.” Said Adriaan Otto, Excellerate Services Managing Director. “The E2 shows that a collaboration is possible, however, challenges remain,” he continued.

Not all private security personnel have the same training as SAPS officers, raising concerns about accountability. Some security firms have also been linked to illegal activities, which can make the public skeptical. To make this partnership work, it needs proper oversight to ensure that private security doesn’t overstep its role. With good regulations, these risks can be managed.

Otto, is in support of an alliance between private security and SAPS but notes that it can be difficult to regulate which companies participate. “On paper and in principle, this partnership is a great idea, but execution is another story,” he said. He pointed out that not all private security firms follow industry rules, and the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) doesn’t always have the resources to enforce them. Otto stresses that Excellerate follows compliance standards, but not all companies operate with the same level of integrity.

As this possible partnership grows, it could lead to improvements in the private security sector. Companies might adopt higher standards and better training, making security jobs even more professional and boosting public trust. Otto commented, “The private security industry would be driven toward statutory compliance on a much larger scale.”

Financial benefits could also emerge, as the government may offer subsidies or tax relief for consumers using private security services, helping these companies stay viable while improving public safety.

Excellerate encourages SAPS to work with private security in a way that truly benefits the public. With clear rules, both SAPS and private security can strive for a safer South Africa, focusing on the needs of citizens. Responsible partnerships like this could play a big role in reducing crime and making communities feel safer.

The future looks promising if SAPS and private security can build strong, responsible partnerships. By working together, they can make South Africa a safer place for everyone.

Sources: Daily Maverick, Research Gate, South African Police Service, Business Live, Eyes and Ears Initiative