Disrespectful Behaviour by Airport Security Supervisor at ACSA

On 25 June 2025 at around 13:20, I was stopped at airport security because my carry-on luggage contained lithium drone batteries, which were visible on the x-ray scanner. As a licensed drone pilot, I travel frequently and am fully aware of SACAA regulations—batteries under 100Wh are allowed in carry-on bags, up to a limit of 20, and must be properly packed in a lipo-safe bag, which they were.

I had no issue opening my luggage and explaining this, as I have done many times before. However, the security supervisor who was called over handled the situation in a completely unprofessional manner. He spoke to me loudly and disrespectfully, continuously interrupting me and not allowing me to explain. Eventually, I had to show him on his own printed regulation sheet that I was following all the rules.

Only then was I allowed to continue, without any apology or acknowledgment of his mistake. I was treated with unnecessary hostility and suspicion—despite following the rules to the letter.

This kind of behaviour is unacceptable and points to a lack of proper training and professionalism among ACSA staff. I expect better from a national airport authority. Passengers should not be treated like ********s for doing nothing wrong.