Speke Security Boss Slapped with Fine for Illegal Work
Paul Skyner, director of a Liverpool security firm, has been hit with a hefty fine for running a night shift without a valid Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence. The case was heard at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on August 17.
Booted for Breaking Security Laws in Wirral Nightlife
Skyner admitted guilt for working unlawfully in Wirral’s nightlife. The court fined him £540, added a £216 victim surcharge, and slapped on £1,000 in prosecution costs.
Crackdown Follows Joint SIA and Police Sting
The SIA, teaming up with Merseyside Police and Wirral Council’s licensing team, carried out checks on January 13, 2023. While inspecting a local bar, they found two licensed door staff working—but traced them back to Azure Security Ltd, Skyner’s Liverpool company.
Further investigations revealed Skyner had deployed staff without proper licences, breaching strict UK security laws that demand all operatives hold valid SIA accreditation.
SIA Warns Directors: Know Your Legal Duties or Face the Music
Nicola Bolton, SIA’s Criminal Investigations Manager, warned: “Directors must understand legal requirements when deploying security staff. Mr. Skyner was prosecuted for one illegal night’s work in the run-up to a record.”
The SIA is clear: security operatives must carry valid licences under the Private Security Industry Act 2001. Breaking the rules can mean fines, prosecution, and loss of licences.
For more on SIA laws and updates, visit www.gov.uk/sia, or follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter @SIAuk.
