Doorstaff face crackdown

In the first wave of the campaign, the Security Industry Authority (SIA), Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) and police, found 13 door supervisors at pubs and clubs in Bristol were breaking their licence conditions.

Ten pubs and clubs were visited, and 45 door supervisors checked.

All 45 operatives had a valid SIA licence, but some did not have them on display, the SIA said.

Three door supervisors had failed to notify the SIA of criminal convictions — a serious matter that can result in revocation of the SIA licence and prosecution. SIA investigators and police are now looking into this further.

Ten were issued with warnings by SIA investigators; six for failing to display their licence while on duty; three for failing to inform the SIA of a change of address; and one for displaying a photocopy of their licence and for failing to notify the SIA of their change of address.

The inspections were carried out on Saturday, 17 September by the SIA, SOCA and Avon and Somerset Constabulary.

The SIA’s director of compliance, intelligence and communication, Dave Humphries, said: “The SIA is committed to working in partnership with SOCA and the police to ensure the safety of the public and to target organised crime and SIA licensing offences.

“These results show that some doorstaff underestimate the seriousness of breaching licence conditions. I must emphasise that this is a criminal offence and can lead to doorstaff having their SIA licences revoked and being prosecuted.”

SOCA deputy director Andy Baker said: “The pub and club scene is a very attractive market for organised criminals, particularly those looking to direct the supply of drugs. We know criminal groups actively seek out opportunities to control security around venues.

“We want to send the message that using properly licensed staff helps prevent criminals infiltrating the security industry, creates a safer environment for the public and is good for legitimate business.”