SIU searches PSIRA over R130m training tender investigation. Image: SIU
PSIRA
1Min
South Africa
SIU searches PSIRA premises over R130m training tender
The Special Investigating Unit has executed a search and seizure warrant at PSIRA’s Centurion offices as part of an investigation into a R130 million training contract involving more than 7,000 learners.
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has conducted a search and seizure operation at the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) premises in Centurion, Pretoria, in connection with a R130 million training tender.
The operation is being carried out with the assistance of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks.
The Special Tribunal granted the search and seizure warrant on 17 September 2026.
The investigation follows the signing of Proclamation 316 of 2026 by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 3 June 2026.
The SIU had requested documents from PSIRA relating to the procurement or contracting of training services by or on behalf of PSIRA and the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF).
The training programmes under investigation include Election Observer Training, End-User Computing Training and “PSIRA Grade E to C” Training.
The programmes were intended for 7,071 targeted learners across nine provinces, with the contract estimated to be worth around R130 million.
According to the SIU, PSIRA only partially complied with its request for documents, with the bundles provided allegedly omitting a year's worth of documents considered necessary for the investigation.
The SIU subsequently approached the Special Tribunal for a warrant to seize documents and electronic devices, including cellphones and computers, to assist with its ongoing investigation.
The Unit said search and seizure operations are used as a last resort after attempts to obtain full cooperation through engagement have failed.
The SIU is empowered under the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 to subpoena bank statements and cellphone records, search and seize evidence, and question witnesses under oath.
The Unit can also institute civil proceedings in the High Court or Special Tribunal to recover losses and correct any wrongdoing arising from corruption, fraud or maladministration.
The SIU said any evidence pointing to criminal conduct uncovered during the investigation will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.
