It hasn’t been too long since our security guards started being present in stores, even in the southern parts of Ostrobothnia. Crimes also occur in smaller towns. That’s why preventive work and security are just as important in small communities as in big cities.
Store security plays a central role in creating a safe and pleasant environment for both customers and staff. We are there to be seen but also to be available when something unexpected happens.
The role of a security guard in store surveillance is, in short, to prevent crime, promote safety, and help create a calm and secure atmosphere for both customers and staff. By patrolling the store and keeping a watchful eye on what is happening, we help reduce the risk of shoplifting and other crimes.
The presence of a security guard has a deterrent effect on those considering committing a crime while also being a source of support for staff in stressful or challenging situations. At times, we have to escort or remove individuals who, for some reason, behave aggressively or otherwise disrupt business operations.
Other days are calmer, and we assist customers in finding what they need or listen to someone who is struggling and chooses to talk to us for a moment. The presence of a security guard should feel reassuring, not threatening. Security and service go hand in hand, and our job is, at its core, a service profession. Our role is simply to be there for those who need us when they need us.
Despite the presence of security guards, shoplifting and theft remain recurring issues in many stores.
According to statistics from the Finnish police, thousands of shoplifting incidents are reported annually, committed by both adults and minors. It’s easy to think that shoplifting is a minor offense, but even small thefts can quickly lead to significant financial losses for stores.
Under Finnish law, shoplifting can result in fines or other penalties. A person becomes criminally liable at the age of fifteen. Those who are legally responsible and are caught shoplifting are usually fined.
However, even individuals under fifteen can be held liable for damages, meaning they are required to compensate for any harm or loss they have caused. For example, opening or damaging product packaging can result in liability for compensation, meaning the individual may have to pay for the item even if they decide not to purchase it. This is something many people do not consider.
If store personnel detect a shoplifting incident, they often call for a security guard. Sometimes, the guard catches a shoplifter in the act and can intervene immediately. The security guard has the authority to detain the suspect until the police arrive. If the suspect is a minor, guardians may also be contacted directly.
In most cases, the store files a report with the police. The police handle theft and shoplifting reports and register a criminal complaint. If the suspect is a minor, a child welfare report is also submitted to the local welfare authority.
When minors are involved, social services and child protection authorities may be engaged. They assess whether further support or measures are needed to prevent similar incidents in the future. Social workers may be in direct contact with the guardians, with their primary role being to provide help and support.
Security guards working in retail environments frequently handle cases of shoplifting. It is more common than most people think and occurs across all age groups.
When it comes to direct interventions, our job is to ensure that situations are handled calmly and professionally. It is crucial to treat everyone with respect, even if they have made a mistake.
Store security is about more than just preventing crime—it’s about creating a safe and pleasant environment where both customers and staff can feel secure. Shoplifting and vandalism are, unfortunately, recurring problems, but thanks to skilled and attentive personnel, the presence of security guards, and collaboration with the police, many of these crimes can be prevented.
Security guards are not there to monitor people in an intimidating manner but to be a part of the everyday safety and service within the store.
By remaining vigilant and engaged and maintaining an open dialogue with both customers and staff, our goal is to ensure that everyone in the store feels safe. After all, security is incredibly important, even if it is something we often take for granted.
MTP Suupohja Oy MTP Syd Ab is a private security company in Ostrobothnia, Finland. We are authorized to pursue security activities throughout Finland. Our head office is in Kristinestad, but our area of operations covers even the surrounding municipalities.
We want to ensure high-quality security services for you. As a result, professional expertise and customer service are our personnel’s driving factors.
We’re at your service around the clock in order to guarantee your safety.
