Crime

JOHANNESBURG - The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (Psira) has suspended eight employees after uncovering serious irregularities in the registration of businessman Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala’s company, Cat Protection and Security.

On Thursday, Psira revealed that a preliminary probe had identified misconduct, procedural lapses and systemic weaknesses within the authority.

Key failings included poor document verification, inadequate oversight and lapses in ethical compliance. In response, Psira has taken several immediate measures.

The eight employees were placed on precautionary suspension, pending disciplinary hearings and potential criminal investigations. A legal review of Matlala’s registrations and his company’s credentials has also been launched. An independent forensic firm will be appointed to conduct a thorough investigation.

Meanwhile, the authority plans to tighten its vetting procedures for both new and existing registrations, ensuring criminal and background checks are independently verified. A central verification unit will oversee training records, qualifications and criminal history results before approvals are granted.

Controversial businessman Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala. (Pic: TimesLIVE)