An Indian-origin man, Vikramjit Sharma, residing in Worcester, England, has been fined £250 for working illegally as a security supervisor at a UK pub. Sharma was caught during a routine inspection by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and West Mercia Police in November 2022. His licence had expired, making his employment unlawful. The SIA had revoked Sharma’s licence in September 2022, as he no longer had the right to work in the UK.
Sharma, who failed to attend court on June 23, was sentenced in his absence at Worcester Magistrates’ Court earlier this month. In addition to the fine, he must pay a victim surcharge of £100 and the full prosecution costs of £1,663.80. As a result of the case, Sharma now has a criminal record and is prohibited from working in private security.
The investigation began when West Mercia Police and SIA investigators conducted a routine inspection of Worcester’s nightlife scene. Sharma’s licence was displayed as he worked as a door supervisor at a popular pub within a well-known chain. However, the investigators discovered that Sharma’s licence had been revoked and informed him accordingly. He was given 21 days to appeal the decision and was instructed to return the licence.
During the inspection on November 4, 2022, SIA investigators found evidence that Sharma had signed in at the pub where he was working. It was determined that the pub had subcontracted to another company, which had employed Sharma. This company remains under investigation.
Sharma claimed he was unaware of his licence being revoked, but records showed that he had accessed his online account multiple times during that period. The SIA investigators confiscated his licence and attempted to interview him under caution. However, Sharma failed to cooperate. Consequently, he was prosecuted in absentia on August 11.
In the UK, individuals working as security personnel under a contract are required to hold and display a valid SIA licence. The Security Industry Authority regulates the private security industry in the country and reports to the Home Secretary.
The case of Vikramjit Sharma highlights the importance of adhering to licensing regulations and ensuring that individuals employed in security roles have the right to work in the UK. The SIA’s licensing regime aims to protect the public by ensuring that licence holders are deemed suitable and trustworthy. By conducting simple online checks using the SIA’s register of licence holders, employers can verify the legitimacy and active status of their employees’ licences.
The conviction and fine imposed on Sharma serve as a reminder to others working in the security industry to comply with licensing requirements. The SIA and law enforcement agencies are committed to maintaining the integrity and safety of the industry, safeguarding the public in the process.
