The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is currently executing a search and seizure warrant at the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) premises in Centurion, Pretoria. This action is part of an investigation into training contracts valued at approximately R130 million. The SIU obtained a warrant from the Special Tribunal on Thursday, and it is being executed with the assistance of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), also known as the Hawks.
The investigation was authorized by President Cyril Ramaphosa's signing of Proclamation 316 of 2026 on June 3. This proclamation empowered the SIU to investigate the procurement or contracting of training services by or on behalf of PSIRA and the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF). The training services under investigation include Election Observer Training, End-User Computing Training, and "PSIRA Grade E to C" Training. These services were provided to 7,071 targeted learners across nine provinces.
According to SIU spokesperson Selby Makgotho, the unit had requested documents from PSIRA relating to the procurement and contracting of the training services. However, PSIRA only partially complied with the request, providing incomplete bundles that omitted a year's worth of necessary documents. As a result, the SIU approached the Special Tribunal for a search warrant to seize documents and electronic devices, including cell phones and computers, to aid in the ongoing investigation.
The SIU uses search and seizure as a last resort after failing to obtain full cooperation through engagement. Makgotho emphasized that the unit had exhausted other avenues before opting for this approach. The SIU is empowered under the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 to subpoena bank statements and cellphone records, search and seize evidence, and interrogate witnesses under oath.
The SIU has the authority to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to correct wrongdoing uncovered during investigations caused by corruption, fraud, or maladministration. If evidence of criminal conduct is uncovered during the investigation, it will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action. This ensures that any potential wrongdoing is thoroughly addressed through the appropriate channels.
The search and seizure operation at PSIRA is a significant development in the investigation into the R130 million training contract. The SIU's actions demonstrate its commitment to uncovering potential corruption and maladministration within the organization. The investigation will focus on ensuring that public funds were used appropriately and that the training services provided were legitimate and effective.
The outcome of the investigation will be crucial in determining the extent of any potential wrongdoing and the necessary steps to address it. The SIU's efforts to investigate and address corruption and maladministration are essential in promoting transparency and accountability within South Africa's public sector. The investigation's findings will likely have significant implications for PSIRA and the individuals involved in the procurement and contracting of the training services.
Key points
- The SIU is investigating R130 million training contracts awarded by PSIRA and the Unemployment Insurance Fund.
- The investigation follows President Cyril Ramaphosa's authorization of the probe into potential corruption and maladministration.
- The SIU executed a search warrant at PSIRA's premises in Pretoria to seize documents and electronic devices to aid in the investigation.
