Security personnel reminded to renew licences

Security guards, private investigators and security guard agencies are reminded that they must renew their licences by Saturday, January 31, 2021, since the current ones will expire on December 31, 2020. 

The renewal process will start next Tuesday, December 1, and persons should visit National Security, Prime Minister’s Office, Weymouth Corporate Centre, Roebuck Street, St. Michael. 

The National Security section has advised that no person may provide services as a private investigator or security guard, or operate an agency engaged in the business or providing those services, unless licensed under the Act. 

Any person who contravenes the Act “is guilty of an offence, and is liable on conviction to a fine of $5,000, or imprisonment of two years, or both”. 

A valid Police Certificate of Character must be submitted with the renewal application. This certificate is valid for a period of six months after the issue date. The Police Certificate of Character is now available online at www.gov.bb, or persons may go to their nearest post office. The certificate will be sent to the email provided on the application 24 to 48 hours after the payment has been received. 

Non-nationals applying for, or renewing licences must provide documentation verifying that they are residents or citizens of Barbados or have work permits, which allow them to work. 

Entities should ensure that security agencies, private investigators and security guard licences are current, when engaging their services. 

For further information, the public may email leonard.cyrus@barbados.gov.bb, or call 535-5467 or 535-5300. (BGIS)