13/10/2026
FI****MS AND PUBLIC UNREST: KNOW YOUR RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
A Public Safety Advisory from the Professional Fi***rm Trainers Council (PFTC)
Recent incidents of public unrest in KwaZulu-Natal have once again raised an important question: When may a fi***rm legally be used during riots, looting or violent public disturbances?
The PFTC wishes to remind all fi***rm owners that possessing a licensed fi***rm does not automatically grant the right to use it against individuals participating in public unrest.
What does South African law say?
Under South African law, the use of potentially deadly force in private defence is subject to strict legal requirements.
* Protection of life: Deadly force may be justified where a person faces an unlawful attack posing an immediate threat of death or serious bodily harm, provided the force used is necessary and reasonably proportionate to the threat.
* Protection of property: Theft, looting, vandalism or damage to property does not, on its own, justify shooting a perpetrator.
* Immediate threat: Private defence generally requires an attack that has commenced or is immediately threatening. A possible future threat or retaliation for an earlier incident is not sufficient.
* Warning shots: Firing warning shots is not automatically lawful and may expose the fi***rm owner to criminal liability.
* Responsibility for every shot: Fi***rm owners remain accountable for their actions, including injuries or deaths resulting from unlawful or negligent fi***rm use.
What are the possible consequences?
The unlawful discharge or use of a fi***rm during public unrest may result in serious criminal charges, including murder, attempted murder or other fi***rm-related offences, depending on the circumstances.
Civil claims for damages, the loss of fi***rm licences and declarations of unfitness to possess fi****ms may also follow.
The PFTC’s position
A fi***rm is a last resort in the defence of life, not a tool for crowd control, intimidation, punishment or the protection of property alone.
We encourage all fi***rm owners and security personnel to remain calm, avoid unnecessary confrontation, prioritise personal safety and understand the legal principles governing private defence.
Responsible fi***rm ownership requires more than technical proficiency. It demands sound judgement, restraint and a thorough understanding of the law.
REMEMBER: The fact that you are legally armed does not mean that every use of your fi***rm will be lawful.
Professional Fi***rm Trainers Council (PFTC)
Promoting responsible fi***rm ownership, professional training and legal compliance.
