PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF PRIVATE SECURITY COMPANIES (PSCs) IN CRIME CONTROL WITHIN CALABAR MUNICIPALITY, CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Following rising crime rates and diminishing public trust in State security agencies, the reliance on Private Security Companies in recent times has increased, thereby raising serious public concern. This study investigates the public perception of Private Security Companies (PSCs) in crime control within Calabar Municipality, Cross River State, Nigeria.  The assumptions of the structural functionalism and Routine Activity theories were adopted as theoretical framework. The research adopted a cross-sectional survey design, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methods to collect data from 400 residents, of which 357 valid responses were analyzed. Findings reveal that a substantial portion of residents and businesses engage PSC services particularly manned guarding and physical access control measures as a strategy for crime deterrence. Statistical analysis using the Chi-square technique confirmed significant relationships between PSC services and crime reduction, as well as between the presence of security guards and improved safety. Despite their contributions, PSCs face challenges including lack of integration with public agencies, limited resources, and regulatory inconsistencies. The study recommends among others that enhanced public-private collaboration, standardized training, and the adoption of advanced security technologies to strengthen crime control efforts.