Security Guard's License Cancelled After Methamphetamine Conviction – PSPLA Decision

WELLINGTON, 5 September 2025 – The Private Security Personnel Licensing Authority (PSPLA) has revoked the Certificate of Approval (COA) for security guard Taiupu Poasa, following his conviction for possession of methamphetamine for supply.

The official decision, recorded as [2025 NZPSPLA 096], was released after a remote hearing on 4 September 2025. Mr. Poasa did not appear at the hearing and failed to provide any written response or request a waiver.

According to the PSPLA decision, Mr. Poasa was convicted on 5 August 2025 for possession of a Class A controlled drug (methamphetamine), in a quantity deemed to be intended for supply. He was sentenced to 11 months of home detention with special post-detention conditions.

Under section 62(f)(v) of the Private Security Personnel and Private Investigators Act 2010, this type of conviction constitutes mandatory grounds for disqualification from holding a COA—unless a waiver is applied for and granted. No waiver application was submitted.

The New Zealand Police, represented at the hearing by Sergeant D. Greaney, presented evidence that Mr. Poasa was involved in a sophisticated methamphetamine importation scheme. Some co-offenders were patched gang members, further implicating Mr. Poasa in organised criminal activity.

Licensing Authority P.A. McConnell concluded:

“I am satisfied that because of the nature and seriousness of his offending Mr Poasa is no longer suitable to be a responsible security employee.”

The Authority made the following formal orders:

• Immediate cancellation of Taiupu Poasa’s Certificate of Approval

• Mr. Poasa must return his security ID to the Licensing Authority within 7 days

This ruling is a clear affirmation of the PSPLA’s mandate to uphold the integrity and safety of the private security industry in New Zealand.

This case serves as a reminder of the strict standards applied to individuals working in security roles. Associations with serious drug offences or gang-related activity are viewed as incompatible with the responsibilities of a licensed security worker. Employers and licensing bodies are urged to conduct rigorous background checks and act swiftly in reporting breaches or criminal convictions.