BIMCO Security Advisory
BIMCO has received reports that a small minority of PMSCs may be operating contrary to the provisions of GUARDCON.
These companies are leasing/renting out their weapons to other PMSCs. Those renting/leasing from third parties without having in place the required licences and permits issued by state authorities to control the handling and movement of weapons are likely to be in breach of the original “end user” licences and therefore operating illegally.
PMSCs who engage in this practice are potentially in breach of their obligations under Clause 10 (Permits and Licences) of GUARDCON. Those PMSCs renting/leasing out the weapons are potentially in breach of the UK Proceeds of Crime Act and other similar international laws.
The motivation of these PMSCs is to undercut their competition in an increasingly competitive market by slashing weapons-related logistics costs. BIMCO urges owners and operators, particularly those with long-term contracts with PMSCs, to exercise due diligence in checking that their chosen security company is operating in accordance with valid permits and licences as specified at Clause 10 of GUARDCON.
Source: BIMCO
