Press release

Brixton Academy tragedy: Statement from Paul Fullwood SIA, Director of Inspections and Enforcement

We are working with the Metropolitan Police to assist them with their investigation into the tragedy that took place at the Brixton O2 Academy on the night of 15 December 2022.

We are working with the Metropolitan Police to assist them with their investigation into the tragedy that took place at the Brixton O2 Academy on the night of 15 December 2022.

We have seen the reports in the press resulting from the BBC’s File on 4 programme. As the regulator of the private security industry in the UK, we take allegations of corruption by security operatives extremely seriously.

We have today launched an inquiry into these allegations, which appear to extend beyond the Brixton O2 Academy. We will also review licensing arrangements and take appropriate action against any individual or company carrying out such practices as part of our regulatory licensing responsibility across the private security industry.

We regularly meet with security companies to ensure their staff adhere to the highest professional standards. It is a requirement that contracted security staff have passed our accreditation process to secure a licence. If a security operative falls below these standards, we demand an immediate investigation by the company that employs them. This includes disciplinary action to be taken and where appropriate that the matter is reported to the police.

If anyone has information concerning wrongdoing by security operatives please report this through our website here. Or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. All information provided will be treated in confidence.

Published 18 January 2023