Sindh Govt Shuts Down 36 Security Companies

The Sindh government has revoked the licenses of 36 private security companies and issued show-cause notices to 41 others for failing to meet the standards set by the provincial home department, officials revealed on Monday.

During a meeting chaired by Home Minister Zia Lanjar, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Muhammad Iqbal Memon reported that 302 private security agencies are currently registered in Sindh.

Sindh Inspector General of Police Ghulam Nabi Memon, who was also present, explained that private security firms are required to operate within a defined regulatory framework. He noted that the home department has the authority to cancel licenses if companies do not comply with these rules, which was the case for the recently penalized firms.

The IGP added that inspections of private security companies are ongoing, and that the Employee Verification Management System (EVM) is being used to ensure all security guards are properly vetted. Under this system, companies must register and verify the details of their personnel.

The meeting also decided to review and update the standard operating procedures (SOPs) and the laws governing private security agencies in the province. A committee was formed—including the special secretary (Home), the home minister’s coordinator, and representatives from the Special Branch and other law enforcement bodies—to oversee a comprehensive inspection of all private security companies within 30 days.

Home Minister Lanjar emphasized the importance of formal training for security guards and the need to bring all private security operations under a clear legal framework. He also announced the creation of a dedicated desk for private security companies, which he will personally supervise.