Transworld Security has recognised four of its security operatives for helping to prevent the vandalism and possible theft of five brand-new Hilux vehicles at a client’s premises.
The operatives, Miracle Asabe, Okeke Sunday, Jimoh Al-Ameen and Jimoh Taofeek, were recognised for their vigilance, courage and professionalism during an incident that occurred at about 2:30 a.m.
The company also commended members of its Operations Team for their prompt response and coordination, which contributed to the apprehension of the suspected criminals.
Presenting the awards, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Transworld Security, Dr. Victoria Ekhomu, said the company was pleased to recognise the operatives for their exceptional performance.
Ekhomu said a burglar knocked on the client’s gate at about 2:30 a.m. before gaining unauthorised access to the premises, which was protected by Transworld Security.
She said the security officers responded immediately after detecting the unusual activity, raising the alarm and contacting the company’s Operations Team.
According to her, the Operations Team promptly notified the client’s Chief Security Officer and contacted the police. By about 3:00 a.m., members of the team had proceeded to the location, with Godwin Ikpe providing transportation, to support the response. She said the prompt intervention and effective coordination helped in the apprehension of the suspects and prevented the possible theft of the five Hilux vehicles.
Ekhomu, however, disclosed that two members of the five-man gang were employees of the client, describing the development as a reminder of the security risks posed by insider threats.
She said organisations must therefore address both external and internal vulnerabilities when developing security measures.
The Transworld chief commended the four security officers for remaining alert during the early hours of the morning and also recognised Felix Igwe and John Abah of the Operations Team for their swift coordination and response.
The company presented the operatives with award plaques, letters of award and cash gifts in recognition of their performance.
Ekhomu said the awards were intended to reinforce the company’s commitment to professional excellence, vigilance, courage and integrity.
She stressed that effective security went beyond standing at gates and controlling access, noting that security personnel had a responsibility to prevent incidents, identify threats early, respond appropriately and protect people and assets.
According to her, observation and alertness are among the most important tools available to security officers, as suspicious movements, unusual sounds, unauthorised visitors and unexplained activities could serve as early warnings of an impending security incident.
She urged security personnel to understand the assets they are protecting, identify vulnerabilities at their assigned locations, know who is authorised to gain access and understand the appropriate procedures for raising alarms and responding to emergencies.
Ekhomu said the incident demonstrated the importance of having security officers who understood their assignments and could serve as effective early-warning systems for organisations.
She also urged organisations to strengthen measures against insider threats through appropriate employee screening and background checks.
Other measures she recommended included access control, effective management of keys and access cards, CCTV monitoring, visitor management, asset-control procedures, staff movement controls, exit procedures and reliable incident-reporting mechanisms.
“Trust is important, but security controls must always remain in place,” she said.
Ekhomu urged Transworld Security operatives and other security professionals to remain vigilant, professional, courageous and alert, stressing that security was a collective responsibility.
She said the recognition would encourage personnel to maintain high standards of diligence and respond decisively to security threats while protecting lives and organisational assets
