Justice Minister Brigitte Mabandla has called for a report on the standoff at former deputy president Jacob Zuma's home between the Presidential Protection Unit and the Scorpions.

Mabandla's office said she had requested a report from the Scorpions "on what transpired at the former deputy president's house". "Until she has received and studied that report, it will be difficult for her to comment any further," a spokesperson said.

Journalists at the scene reported that two-and-a-half hours after the Scorpions raided Zuma's home, four policemen belonging to the Presidential Protection Unit arrived at the premises brandishing LM5 rifles and an Uzi and demanding that the Scorpions open up.

A heated argument over turf ensued, with the Scorpions men reportedly ordered off the property.

After intervention from head office and the arrival of some superiors, the Scorpions later handed over their guns and continued the search.

At the time, Scorpions spokesperson Makhosini Nkosi tried to downplay the incident.

The future of the Scorpions is currently the subject of a one-woman commission of inquiry by Judge Sisi Khampepe. An interim report has been submitted to President Thabo Mbeki.

Zuma, National Police Commissioner Jackie Selebi and Safety and Security Minister Charles Nqakula are among those who reportedly want the Scorpions to fall under the police's control.

The FBI-styled unit - comprising investigators and prosecutors - currently falls under the National Prosecuting Authority and reports to the justice department.

The Scorpions were criticised over the weekend by youth groups aligned to Zuma, particularly because they were armed when they raided the former deputy president's home.

With acknowledgements to Angela Quintal and The Star.