Private security companies in Erbil to face new rules

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region—The Kurdish government has introduced new rules and regulations for private security companies operating in the region, said an official from the Interior Ministry, with restrictions on new licenses and larger cash deposits.

A company must deposit $50,000 with the Kurdish government and the age of its employees must be between 20-50 years.

According to Captain Rebwar Jameel of the Interior Ministry, foreign security companies will not be allowed to engage in any other form of business and will be restricted to security only.

These companies will be prohibited from signing any deals with companies that are not licensed by the ministry of the interior.

“We will closely monitor these companies and make sure they follow every rule,” said Cpt. Jameel.

The $50k deposit applies to companies aiming to renewing their license.

The Kurdish government says that 55 security firms operate in the Kurdistan Region, including 9 foreign companies.

The Kurdish region boasts efficient security and policing in cities. In some cases private security companies are employed by businesses and housing complexes.