Security guards protecting key infrastructure will be allowed to carry and use firearms if the Proposed Private Security Regulation (Amendment) Bill 2024 is passed into law.
According to the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA), this is timely because private security guards form the initial barrier and frontline defence against criminal threats.
Among areas where the private security guards will be allowed to carry firearms include Shopping Malls, Cash in Transit and Maritime Security.
Other areas are Critical Infrastructure, Government Institutions and Institutions identified with elevated vulnerabilities and security risks.
PSRA noted that most of these areas were public spaces characterised by high human traffic necessitating the need for heightened security.
The Authority noted that despite the private security guards being the first line of defence, they lacked defensive capabilities and security equipment.
This has hindered the ability of the security guards not only to protect themselves but also the public according to PSRA.
“This limitation not only endangers the safety of these security guards but also impedes their capacity to execute their responsibility of protecting lives and property,” PSRA argued for the case of armed security guards.
“It will be implemented under stringent regulatory supervision, ensuring adherence to established safety protocols for handling firearms and related operational use of firearms.”
PSRA noted that the decision to arm private security guards was also informed by the increasing cases of the guards being killed by criminals in the line of duty.
Apart from the right to own and use firearms, the Bill seeks to equip private security officers with knowledge and skills to detect, deter and effectively respond to security threats within their area of jurisdiction.
PSRA has also been agitating to ensure a Ksh30,000 minimum monthly salary for all private security guards.
