Police Discover Security Staff Working Illegally In North Wales Crackdown

Police have launched a crackdown on illegal door supervisors, security guards and CCTV operatives across North Wales including in Wrexham.

In total 39 individuals were inspected across the region, with 24 operatives found to be holding a valid SIA licence. However, 12 individuals were unlicensed including directors of security companies, bar managers and security staff.

The joint operation acted on intelligence received by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) which suggested that security companies were deploying unlicensed staff in pubs, clubs and holiday parks in the area.

During the first stage investigators targeted operatives working at sites across Wrexham, Barmouth, Porthmadog, Abergele, Rhyl and Prestatyn.

The second saw SIA investigators and the police target operatives working in Anglesey.

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 them of their change of address.

All the offences found are subject to further enquiries and prosecutions may follow.

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.”