In a stark reminder of the importance of robust regulation in the UK's night-time economy, unannounced Security Industry Authority (SIA) raids have uncovered significant breaches of licensing laws and regulations. The nationwide operation on Saturday, 21 June 2026, saw over 40 SIA officers and police partners visit 224 licensed premises, performing a total of 450 licence checks in the process.
While the majority of security operatives were found to be correctly licenced, investigators uncovered several concerning breaches. These included six suspected Section 3 offences under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 (PSIA), which covers engaging in licensable conduct without a valid licence. One individual was suspected of using a counterfeit licence, another was working while their licence was suspended, and a third fled the scene after being questioned.
Further issues identified included venue staff undertaking or managing licensable activity without holding an SIA licence – a serious criminal offence. Multiple suspected Section 9 offences were also noted, relating to breaches of licence conditions such as failing to display an SIA licence while on duty or failing to notify the SIA of a change of address.
SIA Executive Director of Inspections and Enforcement Pete Easterbrook highlighted the gravity of these findings, stating that the SIA licensing regime exists to ensure security personnel undergo necessary checks, vetting, and training. He stressed that bypassing these safeguards creates a clear public safety risk, and most identified problems could have been prevented with stronger management oversight and a clearer understanding of legal responsibilities.
The proactive inspections covered various regions across the UK, including major towns in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Beyond licence checks, officers engaged with security operatives on broader public safety responsibilities, such as addressing violence against women and girls, tackling spiking incidents, and safeguarding vulnerable individuals.
The SIA has confirmed that its teams will contact businesses that supplied the unlicensed individuals identified during these inspections over the coming week to determine their liability. Supplying an unlicensed security operative is a serious criminal offence, and the SIA has stated it will take appropriate action where necessary, reaffirming its commitment to continued rigorous inspections to maintain public safety and the integrity of the regulatory system.