Contributions of Private Security Companies to Security Oversight at Local and National Levels: the Case of Bole Sub-city, Addis Ababa Ethiopia

Abstract

Private security companies play vital role in local and national security, especially by enhancing public safety and improve security in communities. The objective of the study was to assess the contributions of private security companies to security oversight at the local and national levels: the case of Bole Sub-city. To address the objectives of the study, exploratory research design was used. The study is qualitative by research design and participants of the study were selected using purposive sampling technique. Both primary and secondary methods were used in the data collection. The researcher used participants from private security companies, Addis Ababa Peace and Security Office and Police Officials. The data collected from participants through interview and document review were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings of the study show that the contributions of private security companies have been so enormous which among others include support law enforcement, reporting on incidents and calls, and enhance public safety by creating conducive environment. Indeed, these were achieved all through commendably guided coordination between police and private security companies on the area of crime prevention, training, sharing criminal pertinent data with the police. However, findings of the study also unveil that the cooperation were challenged by lack of continuous information sharing, lack of standardized training, lack of clear rule and regulations, lack of insurance and social benefits for guards which are identified as major problem. The study recommends that enhancing security oversight effectiveness by establishing rules, enhancing training, developing trust, and sharing information, improving payment systems and updating social benefits for private security personnel.