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32nd Edition
New features added to the Security Jobs Finder website. Police Minister urges stronger Police-Business alliance in battle against crime. Plus: job interview tips & Role of Event Security explained.
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3. Police Minister urges stronger Police-Business alliance in battle against crime
Civil Security Published on 8 April 2025 By Ricardo Teixeira
Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu has called for a renewed and results-driven partnership between the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the business sector, stressing the need for urgent and united action to tackle the country’s deep-rooted crime challenges.
Speaking at the Ministerial Business Partnership Dinner, a formal engagement aimed at strengthening collaboration between government and private industry, Minister Mchunu underscored the importance of moving beyond rhetoric and towards meaningful, measurable outcomes. His address comes in response to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s 2023 directive to the SAPS to urgently seek out cooperative frameworks with business, as part of a broader effort to enhance public safety.
“We are here tonight to breathe life into the partnership between SAPS and the business community,” Mchunu said. “We are not merely sharing a meal; we are recommitting ourselves to a shared responsibility in the fight against crime and corruption.”
The Minister emphasised the significance of the Integrated Crime and Violence Prevention Strategy, which places partnerships at the heart of a “whole-of-government and whole-of-society” approach to crime prevention. He noted that the strategy aims to build consensus around specific interventions that these partnerships can deliver, offering a path forward in tackling South Africa’s persistent criminal threats.
Mchunu painted a sobering picture of the security landscape. He raised alarm over the high murder rate, the proliferation of illegal firearms, which were implicated in 43 percent of murders recorded in the third quarter of the previous year, and the growing presence of transnational drug trafficking syndicates. He said the police were actively dismantling both domestic and cross-border criminal networks and are currently addressing inefficiencies in the Central Firearms Registry.
Other serious crimes on the rise include kidnappings, extortion, and stock theft. The Minister expressed concern over these trends, stating that continued violent crime, organised crime and corruption pose a threat to the country’s democratic institutions and economic stability. Such criminality, he said, undermines investor confidence and hinders national development.
A particularly painful issue remains gender-based violence and femicide. Mchunu referenced the recent rape and murder of an eight-day-old baby by her father, who has since received two life sentences, as an example of the horrific violence still facing women and children in South Africa. He stressed the importance of safeguarding the country’s most vulnerable, affirming that this must remain a top priority.
The Minister reaffirmed that SAPS is constitutionally mandated to ensure that all South Africans are and feel safe, a responsibility he described as solemn, not symbolic. He stated that the Ministry is focused on building a professional, responsive, and ethical police service, but stressed that vision alone was insufficient. Adequate resources, including infrastructure, skilled personnel and financial investment, are essential to realising the vision of a modern and effective police force.
To that end, the Ministry is prioritising the adoption of advanced technology, strengthening of crime intelligence, improved detective work, the revitalisation of forensic services, and better working conditions for officers. These, he said, are critical enablers of SAPS’s strategic objectives.
Reflecting on the Cooperation Agreements signed with Gauteng Metros in October 2024, Mchunu hailed the initiative as a bold and significant step forward. Business, he noted, had been at the table from the start, and the collaboration had now matured into a partnership focused on three strategic areas: enhancing investigative capacity, the provision of physical resources, and the application of technological innovation.
Among the most notable developments is a pilot project to automate five police stations, with the intention of eventually expanding the system nationally. The longstanding issue of docket management is also being tackled through the development of secure, digitised systems for storage and tracking.
Mchunu acknowledged reputational damage caused by underperforming forensic laboratories but insisted that change is underway. SAPS is working to increase the number of labs and improve the turnaround time for processing DNA and other tests. In a show of support, the business community has committed to equipping laboratories with cutting-edge technology, expanding their number, and exploring the establishment of electronic laboratories.
A meeting with the chief executives of various business entities was scheduled to follow the evening’s engagement, intended to lay the groundwork for the next phase of the collaboration. A SAPS/Business Stakeholder Forum will be established to ensure that commitments are followed through with action. Mchunu was clear that this partnership must not descend into a mere “talk shop”, but rather serve as a vehicle for meaningful and sustained progress.
Looking ahead, the Minister announced the start of a three-day National Policing Summit, beginning the following day. The summit will focus on shaping the future of policing in South Africa and aims to build a service that is efficient, proactive, professional, and capable of responding to the demands of a dynamic society.
Concluding his address, Mchunu made a strong appeal for genuine commitment from all parties involved. “It is easy to commit in words. It is much harder to commit in action,” he said. “Tonight, I call on all of us, government, SAPS, and business leaders, to move beyond theory and into implementation. Let us walk this path together, not just with good intentions, but with concrete plans, measurable progress, and shared accountability.”
Source: https://www.protectionweb.co.za/civil-security/police-minister-urges-stronger-police-business-alliance-in-battle-against-crime/
4. Interview Q & A
How to Answer the Interview Question: “What Would You Do if You Witnessed a Fellow Security Guard Failing to Follow Correct Protocols?”
In the security industry, integrity, discipline, and accountability are essential qualities. That’s why interviewers often ask the challenging but critical question:
“What would you do if you witnessed a fellow security guard failing to follow correct protocols?”
This is not a trick question. It's an opportunity to demonstrate your professionalism, understanding of procedures, and ability to handle sensitive situations.
Why Do Interviewers Ask This Question?
Employers in the security sector ask this question to assess:
Your sense of responsibility and adherence to procedures.
How well you understand the importance of protocols in maintaining safety and compliance.
Your ability to act professionally, especially in difficult situations involving co-workers.
Your willingness to report wrongdoing without fear of retaliation or favouritism.
Your communication skills, discretion, and judgement.
The way you answer reflects your integrity, ethical standards, and how seriously you take your role in maintaining order and safety.
How to Structure Your Answer
When preparing your answer, keep the following points in mind:
Emphasise protocol over personal relationships.
Highlight your commitment to company policies and safety.
Show that you aim to handle situations diplomatically and professionally.
Refer to the chain of command and reporting structure.
Model Answer
“If I witnessed a fellow guard not following correct protocols, I would first assess the severity of the situation. If it’s something that could immediately compromise safety—such as leaving a post unattended—I would act quickly to correct it or inform a supervisor right away. For less urgent issues, I’d approach the colleague privately and professionally to remind them of the correct procedures. If the behaviour continues or is serious, I would report it to my supervisor as per company policy. In our line of work, following procedures is critical, and it’s important to ensure accountability while maintaining teamwork and professionalism.”
Why This Works
It shows awareness of the importance of protocols.
It demonstrates professional maturity by addressing the issue calmly and responsibly.
It emphasises loyalty to the organisation, not just personal relationships.
It acknowledges both discretion and escalation, which is ideal in sensitive work environments.
Alternative Answer (Cautious/Indirect Approach)
“I believe in teamwork and upholding standards. If I noticed a fellow guard not following protocol, I would try to understand the situation first. If it seemed unintentional, I might remind them about the correct procedure. However, if the action could pose a risk or violates company policy, I would report it to my superior without hesitation. It’s our job to ensure safety, and that sometimes means having to make difficult decisions for the greater good.”
What to Avoid
Avoid ignoring the issue — it shows a lack of responsibility.
Don’t say you’d “confront” the colleague aggressively — this can be seen as unprofessional.
Avoid blaming or gossiping — keep the focus on safety and procedure, not personality.
Final Thought
Security professionals are expected to hold themselves and others to high standards. By answering this question thoughtfully, you show that you're a dependable team player who values safety, structure, and accountability. That’s exactly the type of person employers want on their team.
5. The different career options available in the security field:
Career Spotlight: the Role of Event Security
Understanding the Role of Event Security in the Security Industry
From high-profile sporting matches to large-scale concerts, political gatherings to community fairs, every successful event relies on the expertise and presence of skilled event security personnel. These professionals play a pivotal role in ensuring that all attendees, organisers, and stakeholders are protected from potential threats, disruptions, or emergencies.
What Is Event Security?
Event security involves deploying trained security personnel to safeguard events of varying sizes and nature. Their presence ensures a safe, orderly environment by managing crowd behaviour, monitoring for suspicious activity, responding to incidents, and supporting emergency services where necessary.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Event security officers typically carry out the following responsibilities:
Access Control: Managing entry and exit points, checking tickets or credentials, and ensuring only authorised individuals access restricted areas.
Crowd Management: Monitoring crowd behaviour, managing queues, preventing overcrowding, and ensuring safe crowd movement.
Surveillance: Patrolling the venue and using surveillance tools such as CCTV to detect and respond to unusual behaviour or potential threats.
Conflict Resolution: Intervening in disputes and de-escalating aggressive behaviour in a calm, professional manner.
Emergency Response: Coordinating evacuation procedures, assisting injured attendees, and contacting emergency services when needed.
Asset Protection: Preventing theft, vandalism, and damage to property and infrastructure.
Liaison with Authorities: Coordinating with local law enforcement and emergency services for smooth security operations.
How Event Type Affects Security Roles
The nature of the event significantly influences the structure and calibre of the security team required. Below are examples of how different event types may require different security considerations:
Concerts and Music Festivals
High crowd density and alcohol consumption increase the risk of altercations or health emergencies.
Requires trained personnel experienced in crowd control, bag checks, and emergency response.
Sporting Events
Tensions between rival supporters can lead to conflicts.
Security teams must be vigilant, physically fit, and trained to manage crowd surges and potential confrontations.
Fairs and Community Events
While generally family-friendly, these events may still involve risks such as lost children, petty theft, or minor medical emergencies.
Personnel must be approachable, alert, and able to engage effectively with the public.
Political Rallies and Corporate Events
These may involve VIPs and attract protest action or heightened public scrutiny.
Security personnel must be discreet, highly trained, and capable of coordinating closely with law enforcement and private protection teams.
Why Event Security Is Essential
The presence of a competent event security team ensures:
A safer experience for all participants
Prompt response to incidents and emergencies
Protection of the event’s reputation and assets
Compliance with legal and safety regulations
Enhanced confidence among attendees and stakeholders
Without proper security, events are exposed to risks that could result in injury, financial loss, or reputational damage.
Skills and Requirements to Become an Event Security Officer
To work in event security, candidates typically require:
Registration with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) in South Africa
Physical fitness and the ability to remain alert for extended periods
Strong communication and problem-solving skills
Conflict resolution and interpersonal abilities
First aid training (preferred)
Previous experience in crowd management or event-based security (advantageous)
Higher-level roles may require advanced training, including VIP protection and firearms competency.
Career Path and Opportunities
A career in event security offers several progression routes:
Entry-Level: General Event Security Officer
Mid-Level: Team Leader or Shift Supervisor
Senior-Level: Event Security Manager or Operations Coordinator
Specialised Roles: VIP Protection Officer, Venue Security Director
These roles can open doors to long-term careers in corporate security, risk management, and security consulting.
Conclusion
Event security is a vital pillar in the successful execution of any large-scale event. Beyond providing a visible deterrent to threats, these officers ensure peace of mind, safety, and order in often unpredictable environments. With proper training, strong leadership, and a strategic approach, event security teams enable organisers and attendees to focus on the occasion itself—secure in the knowledge that safety is being managed by professionals.
6. Analysis: The case for a South African gendarmerie to combat crime
Ricardo Teixeira - 30th April 2025
South Africa is no stranger to the persistent challenges of high crime rates, under-resourced police services, and deep-seated socio-economic inequality. These issues have long tested the limits of conventional policing. In recent years, public frustration over the South African Police Service’s (SAPS’s) inability to control violent crime has led to repeated calls for the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to be deployed to assist with crime prevention in hotspots such as the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. While the SANDF has, at times, provided temporary support, this reliance on a traditional military force for civilian law enforcement raises numerous ethical, legal, and practical concerns.
This debate resurfaced during a Peace and Security Cluster media briefing in Parliament on 10 April 2025, where ANC MP Dakota Legoete, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans, proposed a formal national operation to combat crime, including the SANDF in the strategy. Legoete described the annual loss of more than 29 000 South African lives due to violent crime as tantamount to a war and called for crime to be treated as a war against humanity. He suggested a national proclamation that would enable a multi-agency effort involving the SANDF, SAPS, Border Management Authority (BMA), Home Affairs, and the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
However, defence experts have strongly criticised the proposal. Defence analyst Dean Wingrin called the idea of deploying soldiers for policing “a terrible idea”, warning that the SANDF is already overstretched and under-resourced. “Soldiers are not trained for internal policing,” he argued, “and the Constitution has clearly defined boundaries between the Defence Force and policing.”
Echoing these concerns, African Defence Review Director Darren Olivier stated that militarising crime fighting would ultimately weaken both the SANDF and SAPS. “Study after study shows that using the military in a policing role causes more harm,” he said. “It typically makes them more corrupt, less disciplined, less combat-ready, and more likely to engage in human rights abuses. Some even find it makes crime worse.”
Olivier referred to research by Montesh and Basdeo, which concluded that if SANDF deployments are ever made in support of the SAPS, they must be temporary, exceptional, and subject to strict civilian oversight. He warned that repeated military deployments risk reducing the effectiveness of both the army and the police while eroding public trust. “The answer to a failing SAPS is to reform, fix, and improve it, not patch it temporarily with the military.”
Instead, myself and Olivier suggest the SAPS and Cabinet consider establishing a gendarmerie; a militarised police force trained to bridge the gap between policing and security enforcement. Such a force, staffed from SAPS ranks and undergoing special training administered by the SANDF, could be far more effective in handling violent criminal groups, safeguarding national infrastructure, and delivering tactical expertise.
While the SAPS is overwhelmed, public discourse has drifted towards framing crime as a conflict requiring military intervention. It is not the military’s job to enforce the law, and South Africa already has a painful history where the defence force was used domestically by the former government. The decision post-1994 was for this never to be the case again, except in national emergencies like COVID or the July 2021 unrest.
The SANDF is not going to be the answer to the fight against crime. It is not a war, but a complex situation that requires a different approach.
What Is a Gendarmerie?
A gendarmerie is a unique institution that sits at the intersection of civilian policing and military organisation. Historically associated with European models of state control and order, particularly in France and Italy, the gendarmerie is characterised by its dual role. Members of a gendarmerie undergo military style training but serve as law enforcement officers. Their operational focus often spans rural and semi-urban areas, border control, and public order management, as well as more complex duties such as counterterrorism and international peacekeeping.
Unlike conventional police services, which are typically under the control of interior or home affairs ministries, gendarmeries usually fall under the umbrella of defence ministries, although some operate with joint oversight. Their military training enables them to maintain discipline and cohesion in the face of disorder, while their policing function gives them a unique capacity to engage with civilians on matters of law and safety.
Portugal: The National Republican Guard (GNR)
One of the most well-established examples of a gendarmerie is Portugal’s National Republican Guard (Guarda Nacional Republicana, or GNR). Established in the early 20th century, the GNR is a uniformed security force under the command of the Ministry of Internal Administration during peacetime, but in times of national disasters or war, reverts to the Ministry of National Defence. It comprises more than 22 000 personnel and is responsible for law enforcement across most of Portugal’s rural and suburban areas, as well as specific national functions such as customs enforcement, highway patrol, and environmental protection.
What sets the GNR apart is its ability to respond rapidly to both civil disturbances and natural disasters, often working in tandem with civil defence and emergency services. Moreover, the GNR has played a significant role in international peacekeeping missions, particularly under the umbrella of the United Nations and the European Union. Its structured, disciplined nature and broad mandate have made it one of the most respected law enforcement entities in Europe.
Cameroon: The National Gendarmerie
Cameroon provides an example of a gendarmerie adapted to an African context, where regional instability and rural security gaps are critical issues. The Cameroonian Gendarmerie operates alongside the national police but focuses primarily on rural and frontier areas where state presence is often minimal. It is a paramilitary force operating under the Ministry of Defence, and its primary tasks include maintaining public order, protecting citizens and property, and supporting other security services in criminal investigations.
Given Cameroon’s diverse and sometimes volatile regions, particularly the Anglophone areas affected by secessionist conflict, the gendarmerie plays a key role in balancing military discipline with public safety. Unlike the military, it is trained to engage with civilians in a policing capacity, making it more adaptable to internal security threats that do not rise to the level of conventional warfare.
Brazil: The Military Police
Brazil’s Military Police (Polícia Militar), which operates at the state level, serves as another instructive example. While technically not a national gendarmerie, the Military Police forces in Brazil perform very similar roles. Each State within Brazil has its own dedicated unit, which is charged with preserving public order and supporting civilian police in crime prevention. Although the name might imply a military combat role, the focus is overwhelmingly domestic.
These forces are often deployed in large cities with significant gang violence, such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. They receive military-style training, wear military-style uniforms, and operate within a strict chain of command, yet their responsibilities include routine policing activities such as patrols, traffic enforcement, and crowd control.
However, Brazil’s model has not been without criticism. Accusations of excessive force and human rights abuses have occasionally plagued the Military Police, particularly in poor urban areas. Still, their visibility, deterrent effect, and ability to operate in dangerous environments have contributed to their continued use in areas where civilian police would otherwise be overwhelmed.
Why the SANDF Cannot Be Used to Combat Crime
Calls for the SANDF to assist in fighting crime have gained traction whenever the SAPS appears to be overwhelmed. However, military forces are not intended for domestic policing, and their involvement can lead to significant complications.
The first and most critical issue is training. Soldiers are trained to neutralise threats, not to investigate crimes or apprehend suspects with the intent of preserving their civil rights. This results in a fundamental misalignment of purpose: while police are trained to de-escalate and protect, soldiers are trained to engage and dominate. The risk of excessive force, human rights violations, and negative public perceptions increases significantly when the military is used for law enforcement duties. Looking at the SANDF’s domestic deployment during the COVID-19 pandemic, South Africa saw several incidents of excessive force, and unlawful detentions of citizens, although the SANDF did play a significant role in enforcing lockdown restrictions.
Additionally, the SANDF suffers from its own internal problems, including a lack of funding, outdated equipment, ageing personnel and low morale. Prolonged domestic deployments would further strain its already limited resources. Furthermore, the SANDF is prohibited by South Africa’s Defence Act from conducting crime investigations, which limits its practical usefulness in any comprehensive crime-fighting operation. Soldiers may be able to patrol and provide presence, but they cannot legally detain, interrogate, or prosecute suspects.
Legal frameworks place additional strict limits on how and when the SANDF can be deployed internally. Such decisions require presidential authorisation and are generally meant for short-term interventions during national emergencies. Using the SANDF as a long-term substitute for policing would be not only legally questionable but also a misuse of military resources.
Why South Africa Would Benefit from a Gendarmerie
A South African gendarmerie would bridge the gap between the civilian-oriented SAPS and the militarised SANDF, offering a versatile, disciplined force trained specifically for law enforcement in high-risk or under-policed areas. It could be deployed strategically to rural communities, townships plagued by gang violence, and border zones where illicit smuggling and trafficking are rife. A gendarmerie would additionally be better suited for the fight against illegal mining, an issue which falls outside of the SAPS’ current capabilities.
Unlike soldiers, gendarmes would be trained in both community policing and military tactics, allowing for nuanced engagement with civilians while retaining the ability to respond forcefully when needed. This would prove invaluable in places like the Cape Flats, where criminal networks are deeply embedded and ordinary police officers may be ill-equipped or too fearful to intervene.
The presence of a gendarmerie could also ease pressure on the SAPS by taking over duties such as rural patrols, border enforcement, and rapid response operations. Meanwhile, their military structure and discipline would allow them to integrate with SANDF units in times of national crisis or external threat.
Importantly, a South African gendarmerie would not be intended to replace the police or the army. Rather, it would function as an intermediary force with a clear legal and operational framework, helping to restore public trust in the state’s ability to maintain order.
This idea is not new and has already been discussed in parliament, under the proposed “Mzansi Home Guard”, but it is crucial that this not be used as a means to address unemployment, which has been a reason mentioned in several such discussions.
Why a Gendarmerie Should Be an Extension of the SAPS, Not SANDF
There is a strong argument that a South African gendarmerie should be created as an extension of the South African Police Service (SAPS) rather than the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), particularly when considering budget allocations, operational focus, and institutional relevance.
Firstly, the SAPS already commands a significantly larger portion of the national budget than the SANDF, with the 2025/26 police budget set at R120 billion. This indicates both government prioritisation and a practical financial base from which a new law enforcement branch could be structured. Leveraging the SAPS’s budget means the gendarmerie could be established, staffed, and equipped without undermining national defence spending, which is already under severe strain.
Secondly, the SAPS is fundamentally oriented toward civilian policing. A gendarmerie embedded within the SAPS structure would be more closely aligned with constitutional policing principles, including crime prevention, investigation, community engagement, and human rights protection. This is vital in a democratic society with a painful legacy of militarised policing. Situating the gendarmerie within the SAPS ensures it retains a civilian law enforcement ethos, even while applying military discipline and capabilities where necessary.
Thirdly, integrating the gendarmerie into the SAPS would ensure smoother co-ordination and operational synergy. It would allow for shared resources, information systems, forensic services, and command protocols. This avoids the jurisdictional friction and operational silos that could emerge from housing the gendarmerie within the SANDF, an institution with an entirely different chain of command, purpose, and legal framework.
While the gendarmerie would still benefit from military-style training and equipment, its core mission, supporting civilian policing, especially in high-risk or rural areas, aligns more naturally with the SAPS mandate. Rather than acting as a parallel force, it would serve as a specialised tactical division under the same strategic umbrella, ensuring accountability, transparency, and efficiency.
Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/featured/analysis-the-case-for-a-south-african-gendarmerie-to-combat-crime/
In conclusion:
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