Fidelity Services Group to legally oppose proposed amendments to private security regulations

THE Fidelity Services Group intends on legally opposing the proposed amendments to the private security industry regulations.

- NADIA KHAN [e-mail]

Wahl Bartmann, the group’s chief executive officer, said the amendments could lead to a dramatic increase in the already unacceptably high levels of crime South Africa was experiencing.

“The changes, which are intended to tighten firearm and weapon controls while increasing regulatory oversight, could have far-reaching negative consequences for both industry operations and public safety.

“It proposes that armed guards be prohibited from performing their duties if their employing company is under investigation - regardless of any proven wrongdoing, could significantly disrupt security operations and potentially leave vulnerable areas unprotected,” he said.

Bartmann said another critical issue was the limitation on firearm use and ammunition control.