TAPSOSA says some of its members contracted to Eskom allege ‘victimisation and purging’ by executives at the power utility

Johannesburg – The Association of Private Security Owners of South Africa (TAPSOSA) has requested an urgent meeting with Eskom to resolve a complaint by a member company that claims to have lost millions as a result of a dispute with the power utility.

The black-owned entity has been providing services to Eskom for a decade; however, for half that time, the company has been entangled in disputes with the giant power utility.

The company, which has requested anonymity for fear of reprisal, now claims to have lost at least R27 million as a result of the long-running dispute with the power utility that has culminated in unpaid invoices.

Apart from seeking legal action, the desperate company has also turned to TAPSOSA for help.

This week, TAPSOSA, which represents more than 2 000 members, revealed to The Bulrushes that its request for an urgent meeting with Eskom head honchos had not been responded to.

TAPSOSA also disclosed that some members contracted to Eskom alleged “victimisation and purging” by executives at the power utility.

The association said it wrote to the Eskom CEO on May 20, 2025, requesting an urgent meeting to address these concerns.

“This request has gone unanswered,” TAPSOSA said.

Asked if the Eskom CEO or any executive planned to meet with TAPSOSA to address their concerns, the power utility spokesperson Daphne Mokwena said: “This will be addressed in Eskom’s response to TAPSOSA’s letter, which will be sent by Friday, 27 June 2025.

Asked specifically about the company claiming substantial losses, the business claims it is facing due to withheld payments, the Eskom spokesperson declined to comment on the details.

Mokwena would only be drawn to say: “Eskom is aware of the case pending in the Gauteng High Court under CASE NO. 2024-017633, pertaining to the alleged non-payment of fees, amongst others.

“However, this matter is sub judice and therefore Eskom cannot comment further herein.”

Regarding the urgent complaint, Eskom spokesperson said: “We confirm that the various matters involving the company [name withheld] are receiving attention.

“However, it must be noted that Eskom will not give preferential treatment to any supplier in order to ensure that their matters are expedited, and due process will need to be followed.”

Pressed further on other grievances raised by TAPSOSA members regarding their victimisation and purging by Eskom executives, Mokwena said: “Eskom is aware of the letter dated 20 May 2025, wherein TAPSOSA alleges victimisation and purging by Eskom executives, and is in the process of responding”.

Eskom Spokesperson Mokwena said the matter will also be responded to in the letter that will be written to TAPSOSA by Friday, 27 June 2025.