Ministry of Interior Issues Warning Against Unlicensed Private Security Operations
By Buba Gagigo
The Ministry of Interior has issued a strong warning to individuals and organizations involved in private security operations, emphasizing that it is illegal to operate without a valid license. The reminder comes amid growing concerns about the proliferation of unlicensed security services, particularly at public events such as musical concerts.
In a public statement, the Ministry cited the Private Security Companies Act, urging all private security firms to comply with the law by obtaining the appropriate licenses and ensuring timely annual renewals. Failure to meet these requirements, the Ministry warned, could result in license revocation.
“The Ministry of Interior would like to inform the general public, particularly actors in the Private Security industry, that operating a Private Security Company without acquiring a license is illegal. The requirement to acquire licenses is provided for in Section 5, paragraph b of the Private Security Companies Act, which states; “as from the commencement of this act, a company shall not carry out a licensable conduct unless”- It has been granted a license by the Minister in accordance with this Act. Furthermore, Section 13 of the same Act makes it mandatory for annual renewal of the license and failing to do so shall result in revocation of license,” the statement reads.
The Ministry further noted with concern the growing trend of informal groups providing security services on an ad-hoc basis, particularly for entertainment events. Such practices, it said, fall outside the scope of the law and must be halted immediately.
“The Ministry also observed the engagement of certain groups of people in providing private security service on an ad-hoc basis – mostly for musical concerts. This act is not consistent with the law. Thus, all those offering such service without license are encouraged to register or shall cease to operate immediately,” the ministry said in the statement.
The Interior Ministry also urged businesses and event organizers to perform due diligence when engaging security providers by requesting proof of valid registration.
“This standard due diligence is recommended to avoid the obvious inconvenience that might come with the closure of an unlicensed company. The Ministry of Interior remains committed to delivering policies and strategies that guarantee the safety and security of our communities. The Ministry will continue to partner with the private sector to improve our internal security measures and consolidate the gains,” the statement concluded.