The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority — better known as PSiRA — is in cleanup mode. Eight of its employees have been suspended after shocking irregularities were uncovered in the registration of controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s security company, Cat Protection and Security. A preliminary investigation revealed serious misconduct, forged documents, and poor vetting controls — raising troubling questions about how a man linked to major corruption scandals and attempted murder charges was able to get a security license in the first place. PSiRA has now launched a full-scale forensic probe, suspended the implicated employees, and promised to overhaul its registration systems, background checks, and cybersecurity safeguards. CEO Manabela Chauke insists the agency is tightening up — but the revelations cast a harsh light on the loopholes and systemic failures that may have allowed criminal elements to infiltrate South Africa’s private security industry