ATMAAV Thanks the ANC

Dear ANC 

As Secretary General of ATMAAV, (Association of Thieves, Murderers and Assorted Villains), I express our sincere thanks and appreciation for your enlightened initiatives in the sphere of legislation governing private security.

The Private Security Industry Regulation Amendment Act is a giant leap forward in addressing and redressing the wrongs and discrimination suffered by the historically disadvantaged criminal classes. The struggle continues, viva ANC, viva!

The  mandatory 51% South African Ownership regulation gives us, too, opportunity to gain a stake in an industry built on our blood, sweat and tears. For too long, foreigners have played a disproportionate role in an industry in which we have the requisite skills and experience.

I trust that, with his expanded ministerial powers,  the Minister of Police will deal firmly and swiftly with any attempts to exclude us from ownership participation. Do we not have a long history of shared interest in this sector of South African business activity? Some of our own people have worn the police uniform with pride. Regardless of what the Musks of this world may think or do, there is no stopping the great empowerment train.

The firearm usage restrictions have the potential to level the playing field very nicely (and may also give us the opportunity to level the opposition). It really is concerning that such firepower should be in the hands of private security operatives. The potential for abuse is enormous. Why, several of our members, innocently going about their normal business, have been injured, and worse. Do you have any idea what it's like having to explain to traumatized family how their loved ones came to such harm? Our only concern is that these restrictions do not go far enough. Surely a truncheon in the hands of the well - trained security officer should be deterrent enough. We would be fair, committing to leave our firearms in their safes, so that the game is evenly matched.

Yes, it is crucial that private security officers are at least as well trained as our highly skilled police officers. And are as effective. I trust that training will emphasize human rights, particularly those of suspects. One hopes that issues of stereotyping and discrimination will be addressed in great depth. Some of our professionals are still in therapy over gratuitous insults and name- calling. In short, we are comfortable with the enhanced training and accreditation requirements. We can't have any Tom, Dick and Harry blundering about, making our people's work even more difficult. Quality over quantity. We believe that there are far too many security companies and operatives swarming around the suburbs. The paranoia around crime is not healthy. Like some of my comrades in the enlightened political parties, I don't understand it.

We are also firmly behind the regulation of drone usage. Look at the havoc those things are wreaking in the Ukraine. We believe that we should keep our suburban skies safe and clear.

Once more, congratulations on your enlightened, progressive approach to the safety and security of South Africans.

Yours in the promotion of opportunity for all.

Richard 

Secretary General: Association of Thieves, Murderers and Assorted Villains (ATMAAV)

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