Overview of the Private Security Industry in South Africa
The private security industry in South Africa has over 9,000 registered companies and 2.5 million registered security guards. Guards protect property, enforce rules, deter crime, monitor alarms, and conduct patrols. Skills like communication and leadership can help them succeed.
Before shifts, guards meet for briefings. They patrol buildings, responsible for cleanliness. Monitoring CCTV continuously is a significant job duty.
Regulatory Authority and Criticisms
The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PRISA) oversees private security companies’ operations in South Africa. Companies must register with the authority by law.
A 2012 paper by the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference criticized the industry for exacerbating divides between wealthy and poor. It also noted private security "perpetuates fear" and only protects those who can afford it.
Industry Size and Challenges
South Africa’s private security industry is booming, as police struggle with high crime levels. In the year to February 2023, a daily average of 75 murders and 400 aggravated robberies were recorded.
Notable Company and Industry Comparison
Ebrahim Parker heads Security SA, founded in 1957 with over 15,000 trained professionals. South Africa employs more private security personnel than police officers. But other countries have larger private security industries in both absolute numbers and ratios.