Multi-agency Operation in West Dunbartonshire

18 June 2008: Investigators from the Security Industry Authority (SIA) joined officers from Strathclyde Police and investigators from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to target rogue security firms and unlicensed security activity.

Checks were carried out to ensure that companies providing security at construction sites across the West Dunbartonshire area were working legally and only deploying SIA licensed security operatives.

During the intelligence-led operation:

• 6 security sites were visited
• 13 individuals were checked
• 6 security guards were being deployed lawfully
• 1 security guard was arrested pending further enquires.
• 6 unlicensed operatives, aged between 22 and 61 were reported for working without an SIA licence (a Section 3 offence)
• 3 people were reported for possible DWP offences, with investigations continuing

Christy Hopkins, an SIA Head of Investigation said:

"It is important that the Scottish construction industry takes more significant steps to ensure that only SIA licensed operatives protect their security sites. Failure to do so could lead to the prosecution of both the employee and their employer.

We will continue to work with our partners at Strathclyde Police and DWP to help drive out criminality and drive up standards in security provision."

Superintendent William Thornton from Strathclyde Police said:

"I was encouraged by the success of this joint venture, which resulted in the detection of offences across a number of security sites in Dunbarton and Clydebank. Due to the impact of this type of partnership operation, we hope to repeat this activity in the future."

Notes to Editors:

• The maximum penalty for committing an offence such as working without a licence or supplying unlicensed staff is six months' imprisonment and/or fine up to £5,000 (or trial on indictment to crown court, whereby an unlimited fine and/or five years' imprisonment could be imposed)
• SIA licences can be checked through the Register of Licence Holders, available 24-hours on the SIA website.
• The SIA always takes a fair and proportionate approach to enforcement action and will take into account the progress an individual has made towards getting or renewing a licence e.g. training completed, licence application submitted. However, the SIA expects security companies and individuals to comply with the law. Further information can be found on the Enforcement pages of the SIA website.