Security regulator suspends Red Ants for ‘improper behaviour’
The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA)
has suspended the Red Ants until their investigations are concluded.
The security authority says the suspension comes after the body received complaints from residents in Alexandra and the Ramaphosa settlement about the treatment they received during evictions earlier this year.
PSiRA's Linda Mbana says security regulator investigated the allegations and found improper behaviour by the Red Ants.
Mbana adds the Red Ants were allowed to state why they should not be suspended. However, considering the evidence against the security company's registration, the decision was taken to suspend the security company.
"The regulator is also busy with improper inquiries relating to the incidents that took place in 2017 that took place in Lenasia South, Seqalo Mid-Vaal and as well as Ivory Park, we are currently busy with the hearing regarding that.”
Mbana says the Red Ants can appeal the decision by the regulator by writing directly to the Minister of police, Bheki Cele, or take the matter to the high court.
However, their operations remain suspended until all investigations are concluded and whenever they have to exercise their eviction duties, they will have to write to the PSiRA's CEO Manabela Chauke for permission.
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