The government through the Private Security Regulatory Authority has begun a compulsory nationwide vetting of bouncers, bodyguards and other private security personnel.
In a notice dated January 8, the authority’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Fazul Mahamed said that the move was meant to enforce the law which ensured that everyone who engaged in the provision of private security services is vetted, registered and licensed.
Further, the CEO detailed that the security personnel referenced included bouncers, event security personnel, VIP protection personnel, Crowd Control Personnel or any other person hired or otherwise engaged to ensure order and safety on premises used for entertainment, recreational or sporting purposes.
“Section 21 and 28 of the Private Security Regulation Act require that no person shall engage in the provision of private security services unless that person has been security vetted, registered and licensed in accordance with the Act.
“In view of the foregoing, the Government has commenced the MANDATORY nationwide security vetting, training and licensing of ALL bouncers, bodyguards, event stewards, door supervisors, event security, VIP protection, close protection, and crowd control security personnel,” the statement read in part.
Also Read: NACADA Gives Update After Club Bouncers Attacked Journalists
Sensitization Before Vetting
At the same time, the association indicated that it had organized for sensitization of the private security personnel across the country.
The notice detailed that the forums, free of charge, would take place at Sarova Stanley Hotel on January 17, beginning 8:30 AM.
“In this regard, the Authority has organized a sensitization forum at the Sarova Stanley Hotel on Wednesday, 17th January 2024 at 8:30 Α.Μ.
“The forum is free of charge, however for ease of planning you are required to confirm your attendance through our email; [email protected], and/or get in touch with our officer, Sophia Matheka on telephone at +254 700 892 475,” added the CEO.
Bouncers Attack Journalists at a Club
The notice came days after journalists were attacked by bouncers at a popular entertainment joint while covering a raid conducted by the National Authority for Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).
NACADA was conducting a crackdown on shisha vending and smoking at Kettle House in Nairobi City when the journalists drawn from different media houses were attacked.
They sustained injuries and were admitted at the Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi.
Also Read: MCK Gives Demands After Club Bouncers Attacked Journalists
Among the journalists harmed are Boniface Bogita of Nation who was stabbed twice in the ribs, Jane Kibira of KBC who was stabbed in the back and Standard Group’s Boniface Okende who was wounded by the bouncers.
However, NACADA condemned the attack adding that despite the chaos that ensued, the operation was successful, and they were able to confiscate 30 shisha bongs, and arrested 21 people including the club Manager.
“The Authority takes great exception to the violent nature of the response to the crackdown on illegal shisha activities in the country and reminds the public that attacks on members of the press, security officers, and other authorized personnel carrying out their duties are punishable by law,” stated NACADA.
