Fidelity insider reveals details about R250 million Eskom security contract 

According to an insider at Fidelity, a security company, the details of the controversial R250 million Eskom security contract awarded under former CEO Andre de Ruyter have been revealed.  

The contract, initially reported to cost R500 million over three months, has been criticized for flouting normal tender processes and being approved as an emergency service procurement. The Association of Private Security Owners of South Africa (Tapsosa) alleges that private security providers were already on-site and providing services that Fidelity was subsequently paid millions for.  

Eskom defends the contract, stating that it aligned with procurement procedures and the National Treasury directives. However, allegations of corruption and fraud surrounding the contract have surfaced, leading to the suspension of Eskom’s head of security for investigation.  

Fidelity CEO Wahl Bartmann confirmed the contract’s value was approximately R250 million and provided details of the security services provided, including national deployment, land and air support, and tactical intervention units. The insider revealed that security personnel worked on the contract for two months, patrolling and guarding power stations and high-risk power lines. Fidelity rented vehicles and helicopters for the project, and security personnel were housed in guest houses and received cash for food. However, they did not receive bonuses, or thank-you letters.  

Bartmann confirmed the insider’s information and added additional details about the contract’s duration and services provided, but he did not directly address the issue of staff bonuses. 

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