Security lapse leaves Comtec beret upset

Everything went pear-shaped for security guard Michael Barr when he was left in charge of the premises of Comtec Computer Training on 13 January this year.

Barr's employer, Red Beret Security, was slapped with a writ from Comtec after the guard failed to set the burglar alarm correctly, inadvertently allowing burglars to break into the premises. They stole six IBM computers and damaged 24 others. The writ alleged that Red Beret had been negligent by failing to provide competent and well-trained staff.

The cost of repairing and replacing the damaged and stolen kit came to u36,145. Comtec also incurred computer relocation costs of about u4,212 and is suing Red Beret for damages and interest.

A lawyer representing Comtec said he expected the case to be resolved quickly.