The Ministry Of Defence and Security is deep in discussion with local security companies over the prospect of arming them.
Addressing a Business Community engagement in Gaborone on Wednesday, Minister, Kagiso Mmusi admitted the proposal has received mixed reactions, with some companies for the idea and others dead-set against it.
However, he warned that if ‘stern measures’ were not taken against criminal activities, the country would lose valuable investors.
“Investors need safer places where they are assured of security and protection of their business. So we are going to do anything and use anything we can to insure that this country becomes safe. We are not going to be polite. We will be visible but not in suits but to stop crime,” declared the Defence boss.
Mmusi cautioned security outlets against recruiting guards without carrying out the appropriate vetting and training first, noting they pose a security risk to clients.
He stressed it is vital the competence of security service providers matches and even surpasses the sophistication of criminals.
“Otherwise we will be at the mercy of these criminal elements, and this cannot be permitted!” said Mmusi, urging security companies to hire qualified personnel and invest in training and capacity-building.
“As paying customers, the Business Community should demand value for money and not accept poor service delivery. This will put pressure on security service providers to up their game, which will help the industry to improve,” continued the Minister.
Calling for collaboration, he conceded the state cannot win the battle against crime single handed.
“In this regard, private individuals and more especially the business community must play their role by investing in their security. Your investment in security should be commensurate [equal] with the risk you are exposed to and the value of your property.”
Minister Mmusi further revealed a Private Security Licensing Board (PSLB) is in place to regulate the industry, with the broader goal of professionalizing the service.
He noted past PSLB inspections paint an extremely worrying picture, with a number serious transgressions by Private Security Service providers observed. These include: guards without uniform, no identification, lack of equipment such as handcuffs and batons.
“The levels of competence and training of most guards were also found wanting. This lack of compliance is a very serious concern for the Ministry and needs to be addressed urgently. I give you up to next week to give me three keys issues that you think are urgent to be attended to!” he concluded.
