Turbulence at Acsa: Security Boss Suspended as Airport Scandals Mount

From inflated contracts to unpaid security workers, here’s why Acsa’s handling of airport security is under serious scrutiny

Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) has placed its head of enterprise security, Mzwandile Petros, on precautionary suspension following allegations tied to a questionable R40 million procurement deal — a move that has sparked even more turbulence for the embattled state-run airport operator.

Petros, a former top cop turned security executive, now finds himself at the centre of an independent investigation probing operational irregularities linked to the 2022 acquisition of 36 Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) units.

What’s the R40 Million Fuss About?

According to a report by digital outlet Fullview, Acsa allegedly paid a highly inflated price of R1.1 million per unit, when the average market cost of ETD equipment sits around R330 000. To make matters worse, only 15 units were needed to meet airport operational needs — less than half of what was procured.

Mary-Ann Joubert has since been appointed to take over the role in the interim while the investigation runs its course.

Delays, Disputes and Discontent

The probe into Petros’ tenure comes at a time when Acsa is already weathering several security-related storms.

Since the June 30 expiry of contracts with third-party security screeners, South African airports have experienced operational delays, with Acsa attributing the chaos to a shortage of certified personnel during its transition to internal security staffing.

While Acsa frames this as part of a larger “insourcing strategy,” the shift has sparked legal action. A judicial review of these insourcing decisions is now underway in the Johannesburg High Court.

Security Guards Left in the Cold

In another twist, 200 former airport security guards employed by Venus International Security claim they were left unpaid after their contract ended. Represented by NUMSA, the workers are demanding their June salaries and severance packages, threatening to picket at regional airports including Bloemfontein, Upington, and Kimberley.

Their plight has drawn criticism from labour activists and social media users alike, many questioning how a national airport authority can fail to meet basic contractual obligations while facing a multi-million rand investigation.

“R40 million for machines we didn’t need, but no money for workers who kept passengers safe?” wrote one user on X “Make it make sense.”

SACAA Steps In with R1.5 Million Fine

Meanwhile, the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has confirmed that it fined Acsa R1.5 million over unresolved security breaches at its airports.

The exact nature of the violations hasn’t been disclosed, but SACAA says it acted within its regulatory mandate to enforce aviation safety and security.

“Enforcement action, including a fine, was meted out against Acsa on security-related matters,” a SACAA spokesperson said.

A Pattern of Mismanagement?

The unfolding saga raises serious concerns about oversight and governance at one of South Africa’s most critical infrastructure agencies. From controversial procurement decisions and leadership shake-ups to labour disputes and regulatory penalties, Acsa’s current troubles may be more than just isolated incidents — they could signal systemic problems.

With court cases looming, airports under pressure, and public trust wearing thin, Acsa will need more than internal reshuffles to restore confidence.

Source:Travel News

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com