Can private security guards make arrests? Here’s what you need to know – Vancouver Sun

Nov 22, 2024

Canadian law allows for any Canadian to make a citizen’s arrest — though the government recommends people call police instead of taking action themself.

On Nov. 12, security guards violently restrained a 16-year-old Cree girl at Guildford Town Centre in Surrey, after her family said she was falsely accused of shoplifting.

Videos posted on social media show the teenage girl being forcibly restrained, her hands twisted behind her back and zip tied, and her feet held down by security guards from Paladin Security, a private security company.

The guards had initially accused her of shoplifting from Victoria’s Secret but when she agreed to let them search her and her bag, nothing was found, her family said. Guards arrested her shortly after.

Read More: https://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/what-to-know-private-security-guards