Keep off guns issue, private security guards tell politicians

Private security service providers have criticized critics of the Private Security Regulations Act of 2016, which requires security guards to receive weapons.

Isaac Andabwa, Secretary General of the National Private Security Workers' Union of Kenya, said the issue of arms issuance had been politicized.

He noted that not all security guards will be armed when the law that seeks to introduce a series of reforms is implemented.

Tool needed

Andabwa warned those who politicize the matter, saying that the law clearly stipulates what are the tools of commerce for industry.

“This includes pepper spray, not just guns. Make it clear that not all security officers will receive weapons as trade tools, "he said, noting that the determining factor is the type of assignment.


"Simple tasks that do not represent security threats will not require weapons, but tasks such as transporting money or protecting areas with high security threats will require [weapons]."

Andabwa dismissed the argument that suicide and murder cases will increase once firearms are issued, saying that adequate training will greatly contribute to preventing the misuse of weapons.

He also noted that the law, which is in line with the government's mission to combat terrorism and other crimes, will not see the guards displace the police, as some critics say.

“Like the police, we also need the proper training. The issue of suicides and murders is a social problem that must be addressed throughout society, not just among the guards, "he said.

THE RULES

In July, Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i published new regulations on the operations of companies licensed to offer security services.

The 2019 (general) Private Security Regulation addresses almost all aspects of business operations, including hiring, payment, training, licensing, equipment management and personal security.



New aspects of the regulations will see private security personnel enlisted by security agencies such as the National Police Service, to participate primarily in the maintenance of law and order and the prevention or mitigation of national disasters.

The regulation states: "With the approval of the National Security Council ... the Inspector General of the National Police Service or the Cabinet Secretary may, in accordance with Section 45 of the Private Security Regulations Act, 2016 require a private security provider operate for law and order maintenance purposes; prevent or mitigate a national disaster; incident planning; share security information and share experience and training. "

The private security sector in the country has been growing since the near collapse of the public police in the 1980s and 1990s and with the attacks of the Al-Shabaab terrorist group.