By Staff Reporter
Government has approved the Private Investigators and Security Guards (Control) Bill which will see it introduce the Zimbabwe Private Security Regulatory Authority.
The body will regulate the private security sector, ensuring that certain standards are met and codes of conduct followed in their operations.
It will also be responsible for licensing, training, and monitoring security personnel to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Information Minister Jenfan Muswere at the post-cabinet briefing said there was a need for updated regulations in light of technological advancements and the private security sector’s growth.
“The Amendment Bill provides for the establishment of the Zimbabwe Private Security Regulatory Authority which will contribute to public protection through the setting and improving of standards in the private security industry and promoting compliance.
“It will also enhance public confidence in the country’s private security services. More specifically, the primary duty of the Authority is to ensure that players in the private security industry comply with governing legislation, and set standards and codes of conduct through licensing, training, monitoring and inspections,” he said.
The Bill expands licensing requirements to include a broader range of security service providers, such as locksmiths and CCTV installers, while also appointing a controller with relevant public security expertise to oversee operations.
“Furthermore, the Principles of the Private Investigators and Security Guards (Control) provide for the appointment of the Zimbabwe Private Security Regulatory Authority Board whose tenure of office, conditions of service as well as dismissal and other facets of the corporate governance shall be in line with the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act [Chapter 0 10:31].
“The Principles further provide for the setting up of the Office of the Controller, who shall be appointed on the basis of her/his expertise, which among other competencies, will be a public security background.
“The Amendment seeks to incorporate the licensing of persons or companies selling, or providing services defined as security services such as locksmith, CCTV installers, among others”.
Furthermore, new provisions for private investigators will require them to undergo rigorous background checks and obtain government-recognized certifications before receiving a license.
