These Rules of Engagement set out the framework under which Mike Bolhuis and Specialised Security Services ("the organisation") accept and conduct instructions. They are provided for transparency. Formal engagement terms are confirmed in writing on a matter-by-matter basis.
1. Scope of engagement
We accept instructions across our six service pillars — investigations, security, rehabilitation, polygraph testing, arrest support, and legal coordination. Every engagement begins with a confidential intake during which we assess:
- the nature and urgency of the matter;
- whether it falls within our areas of specialism and lawful competence;
- any conflicts of interest or legal constraints; and
- the appropriate engagement terms, including scope, deliverables and fees.
We reserve the right to decline any matter. We do not accept instructions that would require us to act unlawfully, to interfere with the course of justice, or to act in a manner inconsistent with the principles set out in this document.
2. Legal authority & cooperation
All work is conducted within the framework of South African law. Where matters intersect with criminal process, we cooperate fully with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and all other safety and security authorities.
In particular:
- All operational members of the team are registered with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA · Reg 1590364/421949).
- Where a citizen's arrest is contemplated, it is undertaken only within the terms of Schedule 1 of the Criminal Procedure Act.
- We do not obstruct, impede or interfere with any ongoing investigation by a lawful authority.
- Evidence or information that becomes relevant to a criminal investigation is preserved and, where appropriate, referred to the relevant authority.
3. Confidentiality & POPIA
Confidentiality is a precondition of engagement, not a courtesy. All client information, matter details and communications are treated as strictly confidential and are protected accordingly.
- We are POPIA compliant (Protection of Personal Information Act, 4 of 2013).
- Client information is only disclosed where required by law, by court order, or with the client's written consent.
- Internal access is restricted to team members who need it in order to conduct the matter.
- Client identities are withheld in case write-ups, media commentary and reports.
- NDAs are available and, where a client requires, are executed before engagement begins.
Where a matter involves personal information belonging to third parties, we handle it in a manner consistent with POPIA and the client's own legal obligations.
4. Evidence & chain of custody
Investigative work is conducted to evidentiary standard. Every matter is documented so that findings can be relied upon by legal counsel, presented to the authorities, or used as the basis for expert testimony where required.
- Evidence is captured, sealed, logged and stored with a documented chain of custody.
- Digital evidence is preserved with forensic integrity — hash values, timestamps and acquisition logs are retained.
- Findings are reported in writing, with a clear separation between fact, inference and opinion.
- Where expert testimony is required, reports are structured for the relevant court.
5. Conduct & ethics
The organisation is guided by Christian principles in its life and business choices. This informs the way we treat clients, subjects of investigation, witnesses, and authorities.
- No entrapment, no inducement to commit an offence, no unlawful surveillance.
- No harassment, intimidation or unauthorised use of force.
- Particular care is taken in matters involving women, children and animals.
- Any conduct that would compromise the integrity of an investigation or prosecution is not permitted.
6. Fees & engagement terms
Fees and engagement terms are agreed in writing before substantive work begins. They typically cover:
- a consultation or assessment fee, where applicable;
- a per-day or per-hour rate for investigative work;
- disbursements (travel, forensic tools, specialist services);
- separate fees for polygraph examinations, security deployments or rehabilitation placements; and
- coordination with affiliated legal partners where required.
Where a matter requires urgent deployment — for example a security incident or an active cyber crime — provisional terms can be confirmed verbally and documented in writing afterwards.
7. Limitations
While we apply every reasonable skill and resource, we cannot guarantee any specific outcome. Investigations are inherently uncertain, and outcomes may depend on factors beyond our control, including the conduct of third parties and the decisions of authorities, prosecutors and courts.
Nothing in these Rules of Engagement constitutes legal advice. Where legal advice is required, we coordinate with the client's own legal representatives or with our affiliated attorneys (Opperman Attorneys).