Courts & Legal
TMPD chief Faro warns of sabotage over Tshwane security cuts
Tshwane Metro Police chief Yolande Faro has warned that cutting the city’s private security budget could trigger backlash and even deliberate disruption.
Testifying at the Madlanga Commission this week, Faro said the metro is aware of the risks linked to reducing spending on outsourced security services, particularly around critical municipal infrastructure.
Security system under the spotlight
Faro told the commission that the city’s security budget, which covers the protection of key infrastructure, has long been vulnerable to abuse.
Two systems are currently in use. One involves fixed deployments where guards are stationed at specific sites. The other is an ad hoc model, typically used during emergencies, which allows private security companies to be called in without long-term contracts.
According to Faro, it is this ad hoc system that has raised the most concern.
She explained that it has enabled large and often unchecked invoices, making it easier for costs to escalate without proper oversight.
Millions lost through questionable contracts
The commission also heard that contracts were frequently awarded to individuals with political connections, costing the city millions.
Faro said the abuse of the ad hoc system was one of the key reasons behind the decision to reduce the private security budget.
She added that the city expects resistance from those affected.
“We are aware that people can create a situation, sabotage. Let us call it sabotage,” Faro told the commission.
The city prepares for pushback
Faro made it clear that officials are not anticipating a smooth transition.
“We expect a backlash. People are not going to say it is fine,” she said.
Despite this, she confirmed that measures have already been put in place to manage potential disruptions as the budget is reduced.
A long road to internal capacity
Tshwane’s long-term plan is to reduce its reliance on private security companies and build its own internal capacity.
However, Faro cautioned that this will not happen overnight. She estimated that it could take up to six years for the city to fully implement the transition.
“It will take time, but we will get there,” she said.
Faro is expected to continue her testimony at the commission.
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: Inside Politic
