A joint Security Industry Authority and North Wales Police operation targeted door supervisors, security guards and CCTV operatives across 14 sites in north Wales. The authorities reported that they acted on intelligence received by the SIA that suggested that security companies were deploying unlicensed staff in pubs, clubs and holiday parks in the area. Visits were carried out in two stages.
During the first operation investigators targeted operatives working at sites across Barmouth, Porthmadog, Abergele, Rhyl, Prestatyn and Wrexham. The second operation saw SIA investigators and the police target operatives working in Anglesey.
In total 39 individuals were inspected, with 24 operatives found to be holding a valid SIA licence. However a number of offences were found. Some 12 individuals were unlicensed; this included directors of security companies, bar managers and security staff.
A company director who supplied security guards to holiday parks in Prestatyn, was issued with a warning for supplying an unlicensed guard. He was also warned for using signage to imply that the company was part of the SIA’s Approved Contractor Scheme, which it is not.
Two individuals were warned for breaking SIA licence conditions by failing to notify the SIA of their change of address. All the offences found are subject to further enquiries and prosecutions may follow, the regulator added.
SIA Head of Investigation Paul Cartlidge said: “This intelligence-led operation has highlighted compliance issues with individuals and companies in areas of North Wales. The results demonstrate that there are individuals who show a disregard for the safety of the public by employing unlicensed operatives or working without a valid SIA licence.
“It is however encouraging to see that the intelligence received by the SIA has resulted in targeted action and further enquiries into these offences are taking place.
“The SIA will be continuing partnership working with North Wales Police as part of the ongoing campaign to maintain and improve compliance levels in the area.”
North Wales Police Sergeant Andy McGregor, based in Anglesey, said: “Working in partnership with the SIA, officers on Anglesey are taking a pro-active approach in tackling and addressing issues involving unlicensed door supervisors. Ensuring that door supervisors are properly trained and managed goes a great way towards maintaining their professionalism and status as well as reducing the incidents of anti-social behaviour and helping those who enjoy socialising at night have a safer time.”
