Private security companies to play big role during elections, especially in hotspots

As we head towards what are likely to be our democracy's most hotly contested national and provincial elections, security is a huge focus area.

Private security will play a major role in containing any threats, especially in hotspot areas.

The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster released the general election security plan on Sunday, followed by a media briefing the next day.

While details are scant, from what they understand at least 350 private security companies will be assisting police before, during and after the elections says Eyewitness News reporter Orrin Singh.

"I think private security are just going to be the eyes and ears for police on the ground."

"In Gauteng alone, we understand that at least 20 helicopters will be deployed to monitor the skies and look at hotspot areas in the province."

Orrin Singh, Eyewitness News reporter

The private security outfits will also play a major role in assisting with technological tools.

In some cases police will be utilising private security control rooms, and accessing their CCTV cameras, Singh reports.

Police Minister Bheki Cele said that out of the almost 24 000 voting stations, 500 have been identified as high risk.

From his sources, Singh says it sounds like the majority of these are in KwaZulu-Natal.

"We know that's always a province that's hotly contested, where issues arise first."

Orrin Singh, Eyewitness News reporter