All sixty-three security operatives inspected during a large-scale operation in and around Perth, Dunfermline, Edinburgh and Glasgow were found to be working legally as they all held valid Security Industry Authority licences. The SIA carried out the four-day operation, which ran from Wednesday, December 15 until Tuesday, December 21, to test compliance among those working in the private security industry.
Investigators inspected 63 security guards and CCTV operators working at 13 premises including shopping centres, high streets, leisure and retail parks.
In total, 85 licences were checked as some individuals held dual licences –all licences were valid. However, in Glasgow, Perth and Dunfermline, six warnings were issued to security guards for breaches of SIA licence conditions. Five operatives were warned for failing to notify the SIA of a change of address and one individual was warned for failing to display their licence whilst on duty.
SIA Head of Investigation, Sara Hesp said: “It has been three years since SIA regulation in Scotland came into force. During this time, we have carried out a number of intelligence-led, partner operations to ensure that operatives working in the private security industry do so legally. It is also important for the SIA, to conduct random operations like this, to ensure that we are targeting the correct sectors and areas.
“I am pleased that all individuals checked held valid SIA licences and this is reassuring for the public, especially during the Christmas period, when more people are out and about.
“However, I must remind operatives that if they are carrying out licensable activity, they must hold a valid SIA licence and adhere to licence conditions. Any breach of the law or licence conditions is a criminal offence and could lead to security staff having their SIA licences suspended or revoked.”
