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ABOUT
BLACK KNIGHT

Shaun Schutte is the Director and Founder of Black Knight Bodyguards, bringing over 25 years of combined military and international close-protection experience to the company. After serving eight years in the South African Defence Force, he went on to spend seventeen years providing high-level personal protection in conflict zones including Iraq, Afghanistan, Angola, and Somalia.

Driven by professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to client safety, Shaun leads a team of highly trained former military professionals, special-forces veterans, and internationally accredited Close Protection Officers. Each operative brings extensive real-world expertise and specialised skill sets to the organisation.

Under Shaun’s leadership, Black Knight Bodyguards delivers elite, dependable, and fully tailored protection solutions for VIPs, executives, and individuals operating in high-risk environments.

OUR MISSION

PROTECTING YOUR WORLD

To deliver uncompromising, discreet, and precision-driven protection that empowers our clients to operate with confidence in any environment. Through elite training, disciplined execution, and absolute integrity, we provide tailored protection solutions that safeguard what matters most.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

CEO-Level 60-Second Briefing — South Africa (17 Nov 2025)

1. Organised Crime & Violent Threats

HIGH

High-crime regions in Gauteng and the Western Cape continue to present serious risks, including hijackings, armed robberies, and exposure to gang-related violence. Executive travel and staff movement in these areas require controlled routes, trained drivers, and constant situational awareness.

2. Cybersecurity Threats

HIGH

Cyberattacks targeting both government and private organisations are accelerating. Ransomware, data breaches, and digital extortion are now among the most frequent and costly risks. Many partners and suppliers remain underprepared, increasing third-party exposure.

3. Institutional Instability

MEDIUM - HIGH

Ongoing corruption probes and structural weaknesses within law-enforcement agencies continue to affect response reliability. This creates inconsistent support during emergencies, delayed investigations, and unpredictable interventions when rapid action is required.

4. Social Unrest & Public Disruption

MEDIUM

Protests linked to service delivery failures, economic pressure, and political tensions can escalate quickly. These disruptions affect transport routes, event safety, business continuity, and the movement of executives and employees.

Operational Impact

THESE CONDITIONS HEIGHTENS THE RISKS TO

  • Executive and family travel

  • Corporate operations and continuity

  • Cyber infrastructure and sensitive data

  • Dependence on local government services

Immediate Protective Recommendations

  • Implement high-security transport protocols for executives and essential staff.

  • Fast-track cybersecurity hardening, including verified off-site backups.

  • Prepare alternative logistics routes for days of unrest or service disruption.

  • Maintain close coordination with trusted private security partners; avoid relying exclusively on state support.

30–90 Day Outlook

Risk levels remain elevated. Expect fluctuations driven by:

  • Political developments and public disclosures

  • Ongoing gang-related activity in high-risk zones

  • Continued escalation of cyber threat activity

Executive operations should plan for persistent volatility across both physical and digital security environments.

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