A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for a Cyforce Security Guard when dealing with a suspect, in line with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Private Guard Company (PGC) Act, must adhere strictly to the legal limits of a private guard’s authority.

Private security guards in Nigeria generally do not possess the power of arrest as given to police or NSCDC officers, but they can carry out a “Citizen’s Arrest” (detention). The primary focus is detention, containment, notification, and handover to the appropriate law enforcement agency.

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Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Suspects

This procedure is based on the legal frameworks that restrict private security personnel in Nigeria to non-aggressive containment and immediate handover to statutory law enforcement.

1. Initial Observation and Assessment

1. Observe and Confirm: Discreetly observe the suspect to confirm that a crime is being committed or has just been committed within your area of responsibility (e.g., theft, trespass, vandalism).
2. Maintain Safe Distance: Do not immediately confront the suspect, especially if they are armed or appear aggressive. Prioritize your safety and the safety of others.
3. Gather Information: Note crucial details for reporting:
   • Time and location of the incident.
   • Description of the suspect (clothing, height, distinguishing features).
   • Nature of the offense.
   • Description of any property involved.

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2. Notification and Request for Law Enforcement

1. Immediate Contact: Immediately contact your Cyforce Security Supervisor/Control Room and the Client’s Designated Authority.
2. Request Support: Request the immediate deployment of the Nigeria Police Force or the NSCDC by providing all gathered information.
3. DO NOT DELAY: The law requires that any person detained under a Citizen’s Arrest must be promptly handed over to a law enforcement officer.¹

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3. Detention/Containment (Citizen’s Arrest)

A private guard can detain an individual only under the provision of a Citizen’s Arrest, which occurs when a felony (serious crime) is committed in the presence of the guard.

1. Intervention (Last Resort): Only attempt to physically detain the suspect as a last resort and when there is a clear and immediate danger to life or property, and only if safe to do so.
2. Use of Force: If force is necessary to prevent immediate harm or escape, use only the minimum force necessary to restrain the individual. Private guards are typically unarmed and are strictly prohibited from using firearms. Non-lethal tools like batons should only be used defensively.
3. Inform Suspect: Inform the individual that they are being detained for the purpose of being handed over to the police, and state the alleged offense (e.g., “You are being detained for attempted theft”).
4. No Interrogation: DO NOT interrogate, search, or physically abuse the suspect. You are not a police officer; your role is containment.
5. Secure and Monitor: Escort the detained person to a secure, designated holding area (if available) or contain them safely until law enforcement arrives. Maintain continuous visual monitoring.

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4. Handover and Documentation

1. Handover: When the Nigeria Police or NSCDC arrive, formally hand over the suspect and all evidence to the law enforcement officer in charge.
2. Receive Acknowledgment: Obtain the name, rank, and badge/service number of the receiving officer.
3. Incident Report: Complete a detailed Incident Report for Cyforce, including:
   • Date, time, and location of the incident.²
   • Details of the crime and the suspect.
   • A step-by-step account of your actions.
   • Names of any witnesses.
   • Details of the law enforcement officer who took custody of the suspect.
4. Preserve the Scene: If an arrest was not made, but evidence exists, secure the area to preserve the scene until law enforcement can conduct an investigation.

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Legal and Operational Mandates

• NSCDC PGC Act: The NSCDC is the sole regulator of Private Guard Companies (PGCs) in Nigeria.³ PGCs like Cyforce operate under a license and are supervised and monitored by the NSCDC.⁴
• Limitation of Power: The NSCDC PGC Act and other relevant Nigerian laws restrict the powers of private guards. They are essentially security watchmen and do not have the statutory powers of police officers to investigate, prosecute, or carry arms.
• Accountability: Any excessive use of force, unlawful detention, or abuse by a private guard can lead to personal criminal liability, as well as the suspension or revocation of the PGC’s operating license by the NSCDC.