Surat: After the rape allegedly perpetrated by a security guard in Ahmedabad earlier this month, city police’s special operations group (SOG) held a meeting with representatives of 160 private security agencies on Monday.Around 850 agency owners, supervisors and guards attended the meeting. Senior police officials warned agencies to strictly follow legal requirements and avoid employing guards with criminal backgrounds.Additional CP (crime) Karanraj Vaghela, SOG DCP Rajdeep Nakum and police inspector Atul Sonara directed agencies to obtain valid licences, conduct mandatory police background verification and avoid hiring unfit, elderly or criminally involved individuals.Agencies were also instructed to provide guards with 160 hours of training, including 60 hours of field training and 100 hours of classroom instruction. Training must also include the use of metal detectors.Security agencies were directed to submit the biodata of guards to the nearest police station and maintain proper records. Gunmen’s licences must also be verified, while guards must wear prescribed uniforms and carry ID cards while on duty.Police officials said surprise inspections will be conducted. Agencies found violating rules could face legal action, including cancellation of their licences.
