Private Security Companies 'Have Anti-Terror Role'

Private security companies may play a role in the police response to a catastrophic terrorist attack, London’s top counter-terrorist police officer said yesterday. David Veness, head of the anti-terrorist squad, said that private firms could provide essential support to police if large areas of cities were affected by a terrorist attack. He said the police were considering providing training to private firms “to raise the level of capability when an event takes place”. Mr Veness specifically envisaged the private security sector cordoning off affected districts, guarding buildings and compensating for insufficient police manpower. “The police are looking for a strategic relationship with private security companies,” he said. “There are a range of opportunities for working more radically and imaginatively with them.” Addressing business leaders at the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr Veness said that the presence of private security personnel at company premises already offered the potential for additional “eyes and ears”. Full Story