MARGAO
The South Goa police have issued an advisory asking citizens, businesses, and those seeking jobs in private security to first check the credentials and legal status of any Private Security Agency (PSA) before hiring them.
The advisory says people must ensure that the agency has a valid licence under the Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act, 2005 (PSARA), and avoid hiring security staff whose background has not been verified.
Police said many establishments and individuals are hiring security agencies without checking their papers or the background of their guards. Some agencies are found to be operating without the required licence, which is against the law.
The police warned that running a PSA without valid PSARA registration is a punishable offence. Strict action will be taken against unregistered agencies, their owners, and those who knowingly hire them. At present, 165 PSAs are licensed to operate in Goa under PSARA.
The advisory also noted that the government is working to strengthen security systems and stop the misuse of unregulated private security, which can fuel organised crime or gang activities. Agencies found without valid registration will face closure and prosecution. All police station heads in South Goa have been told to take legal action against unregistered PSAs in their areas.
Police also appealed to the public to cooperate in keeping Goa safe and law-abiding.
