SIU Probe Ordered Into PSIRA and UIF Training Contracts

According to the SIU, the investigation will focus on training initiatives that were intended to benefit 7,071 learners across all nine provinces of South Africa.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorised a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) investigation into allegations of maladministration and unlawful conduct involving training contracts awarded by the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) and the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF).

The investigation follows the signing of Proclamation 316 of 2026, which grants the SIU authority to examine the procurement and management of training services contracted on behalf of the two institutions. The probe will also assess any financial losses that may have been suffered by the State as a result of alleged wrongdoing. The move forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen accountability and ensure public funds are used appropriately across government institutions.

Training Programmes Across Nine Provinces Under Review

According to the SIU, the investigation will focus on training initiatives that were intended to benefit 7,071 learners across all nine provinces of South Africa. The programmes under scrutiny include Election Observer Training, End-User Computing Training and PSIRA Grade E to C Training. Investigators will assess whether procurement processes and payments linked to these contracts complied with legal and regulatory requirements.

Particular attention will be given to whether the contracts were awarded and implemented in a manner that was fair, transparent, competitive, equitable and cost-effective. The SIU will also examine allegations of improper conduct by officials and employees, possible unlawful expenditure of public funds, irregular transactions involving state resources and any losses incurred through negligence or deliberate misconduct.

SIU Empowered to Pursue Criminal and Civil Action

The investigation covers activities that took place between 1 January 2019 and 3 June 2026, the date the proclamation was officially published. The SIU is also authorised to investigate related matters that fall outside this period if they are directly connected to the contracts, organisations or individuals identified during the inquiry.

Should investigators uncover evidence suggesting criminal activity, the matter will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action in accordance with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act. Beyond criminal referrals, the SIU has the authority to initiate civil proceedings in the High Court or the Special Tribunal. Such action could include setting aside contracts found to be unlawful, recovering financial losses suffered by the State and pursuing remedies against individuals or entities implicated in wrongdoing.

The investigation is expected to determine whether public resources allocated for training and skills development programmes were managed appropriately and whether corrective measures are required to safeguard public funds in future procurement processes.