A Boksburg security company risks losing key contracts after police seized 10 firearms in a raid, as part of a wider crackdown on multiple firms under investigation by SAPS.

Police officers, believed to be part of a SAPS task force, descended on a Boksburg-based security company operating from an office block in Bartlett, seizing firearms, which included two rifles, five handguns and three shotguns, on March 18.

It is reported that the company forms part of a broader list of security firms under investigation by police, following incidents linked to cases currently before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.

Speaking to journalists outside his offices after the raid, Titen Security owner Etienne van der Walt confirmed that officers informed him the firearms were being confiscated for ballistic testing as part of a wider inspection of companies. He said officers told him that the operation was also linked to compliance with the Firearms Control Act.

Van der Walt explained that the non-compliant issue stemmed from his use of an electronic system for record-keeping.

“They came here, and we complied with the operation and allowed them to seize our firearms because we have nothing to hide,” said van der Walt.

“When it comes to the Firearms Control Act, we are compliant with almost everything. However, there were some shortcomings identified regarding my paperwork, specifically the firearm register book. They told me they were taking the firearms for ballistic testing, and we allowed them to do so. We are not happy about it, but we are trying to stay within the law.”

“We are operating on an electronic system, and to my knowledge, the firearm register could be kept electronically. However, I learned today that it should be maintained manually. It’s a slip-up on my side, but it can be corrected. They have done their work. I’m obviously not happy that my firearms have been taken, but there’s nothing we can do.”

Responding to questions about whether the raid could be linked to properties allegedly connected to suspects implicated in the murder of Emmanuel Mbense and Witness D, van der Walt said he was given no such indication.

“I did ask that question, but nothing was said to me about that. The warrant officer was very professional in his conduct. He told me it relates to a long list of companies they are investigating. They could not confirm whether it is linked to those cases or not,” he said.

“But we all want these cases finalised. At the end of the day, we just want to be compliant and move forward. They have to conduct their searches and background checks.”

He added that the officer advised him to ensure full compliance moving forward, while confirming that the firearms would undergo ballistic testing.

“As far as I know, the firearms were booked in at Boksburg North SAPS and will then be taken for ballistic testing. We will take it from there. No statement was taken from me,” he said.

The Advertiser has since established that the firearms were indeed booked in at Boksburg North SAPS before being checked out for ballistic testing.

Van der Walt further noted that the seizure of all his service firearms has had a negative impact on his business, placing him at risk of losing contracts at certain sites.

Also Read: UPDATE: Van Dyk Park shooting survivor dies in apparent suicide