Security
Guards

Can Security Guards Touch You

Businesses hire security guards to prevent risks such as theft and vandalism, and to take care of any problems that develop. However, as a security guard, what are your legal responsibilities?

Since security guards are recruited to prevent crime, it is commonly assumed that they have the same authority as police officers. Security guards, on the other hand, have the same legal rights and authority as the general public. This raises more problems about what a security officer is allowed to do in the event of a suspected attack.

Is It Possible To Be Arrested By A Security Guard?

Security guards, like any other person, are allowed to make a citizen's arrest if they have legitimate suspicions about the person they're going to arrest. However, there are some requirements that must be met in order for the arrest to be legal. Section 24A of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act governs these matters.  A citizen can be arrested if:

• They are witnesses to a crime or have certain reasons to believe that a crime has been committed.
• They see or have cause to believe someone is committing a crime.
• To prevent an individual from injuring oneself or others.
• Prevent an individual from causing damage to property or a loss to the company/organization.
• To prevent someone from leaving before an officer reaches to take control.

Is it legal for a security guard to physically restrain you?

Security guards, like everyone else, are only allowed to use reasonable force when absolutely necessary, such as while holding a person or when detaining them.

Is It Legal For A Security Guard To Search You?

Security guards are not permitted to search you or your belongings unless you give them permission. If you are not present or unconscious, the case is different. This enables them to look through your belongings. This is also applicable to security guards who think they've captured a shoplifter, as they're not allowed to conduct a forced search if the person refuses; in this case, they'd have to retain the suspect shoplifter until a police officer comes and can legally do a forced search.

In certain circumstances, searches can be conducted without a person's consent. For example, they have the right to search a bag or any other form of possession that has been left unattended in a suspicious situation because it may pose a hazard to public safety. A security guard is allowed to inspect a person's bag if they are unconscious and they are trying to identify them for the purpose of helping them.