Government bill aims to expand authority of private security guards
The government is proposing a major overhaul of the legislation governing security guards and private security companies to prevent individuals with private security licenses from working for criminal organizations. The new bill grants security guards powers similar to police officers, except for carrying firearms, and includes conducting searches, using detection dogs, and wearing uniforms. The bill redefines “security guard” and specifies the services they can provide. Companies can hold multiple licenses based on the services they offer, and the use of force is limited, with batons generally prohibited.