Mr. Vipul Hettige, Group Deputy Chief Executive Director/CEO CEYLINCO-CISCO |
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CEYLINCO-CISCO Security Corporation was established in the year 1977, and at the inception was referred to as Key Security Services Private Limited. In the year 1995 the company entered into a joint venture with Commercial and Industrial Security Corporation (CISCO) of Singapore which is the auxiliary police force for Singapore, a government owned company. CISCO of Singapore provide an integrated range of security services through five main divisions, which include armed security, security service, security systems, security facilities and regional security services. The Sunday Times spoke to Mr. Vipul Hettige, Group Deputy Chief Executive Director/CEO CEYLINCO-CISCO Group to find out more about the services that they provide. Brigadier Udene Kendaragama, Director - Operations and Mr. Eshantha de Silva, General Manager - Administration were also present for the interview.
"After we entered into the joint venture with CISCO Singapore we experienced quite a fast track progress, which included branch expansions and opening up subsidiary companies. Our very first branch was opened in the year 1995, in Negombo and at present we have 12 branches under the CEYLINCO-CISCO Security Corporation, which is our parent company. We have also diversified into many areas through our subsidiary companies, which include the areas of Security, Technology and Consultancy, Security Transport, courier and Home Nursing. The main intention behind our joint venture with CISCO was to introduce state-of-the-art electronic security systems to complement our manpower security services by combining electronics with manpower and through this we became the first ever company in Sri Lanka to provide integrated security services", says Mr. Hettige.
Brigadier Udene Kendaragama, Director - Operations |
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"At present we have a staff strength of over 7500 working under the CEYLINCO-CISCO group itself. We are the market leader with regards to loss prevention; we provide industrial as well as commercial security mainly through our manpower security services. When you need our services we first identify and assess your risks, define your objectives and follow up with a security survey. After this we prepare a plan which includes routine and emergency procedures and implement it using well trained and experienced Security Officers and Electronic Security Systems. We have an island wide network of branches, which are strategically spread across the country and are able to respond rapidly to any development. Each branch operates independently and upholds the same high standards in service. Our excellent communication system enables all branches to be constantly in contact with their security officers in our client's premises and also with each other. This ensures that mutual support and backup services are available and coordinated in an effective manner.
CEYLINCO-CISCO is previledged to provide security services to a majority of international and national banks, which include HSBC, Standard Chartered Bank, ICICI Bank, Deutsche Bank, Citi Bank, Seylan Bank, NDB Bank as well as a number of other financial institutions and corporate customers. The group currently has a clientele of over 3000 customers and provide island wide services through its branch network.
CEYLINCO-CISCO also offers a well maintained bandit proof security transport fleet, which is equipped with secure communications and escorted by armed guards who transport cash, bullion and other high value articles securely around the country every single day. In addition to this an array of support services are also offered which includes cash management, cash processing, vault services, data storage, cash collection and transport, ATM replenishment. An integral part of our comprehensive service includes providing solutions for safe and prompt transportation of cash and valuables. We understand that each situation is different and that is why we have specialized solutions to suit your security needs. Our armory is built according to international standards and we always adhere to the guidelines and regulations set out by the defense ministry", further stated Mr. Hettige.
Eshantha de Silva, General Manager - Administration |
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Through CEYLINCO-CISCO Technology and Consultancy the group offers such services as Burglar Alarm Systems, Central Alarm Monitoring Services (CAMS), Access Control Systems, CCTV Systems, Fire Detection and Protection Systems, Metal Detectors and Metal Arches etc. The company's 24-hour CAMS has the ability to dispatch a Response Team to the location concerned in case of an emergency to immediately evaluate the situation. The company also immediately notifies the Police, Fire Brigade or their own Ambulance Services as required. Ceylinco Express is the group's courier company, which provides local and international courier services with an island wide branch network. Ceylinco Home Nursing and Swift Care, which is a health care company provides 24-hour ambulance services, doctor on call services and home nurses etc. Home nursing services is a new concept introduced to Sri Lanka in order to provide excellent health care services in the comfort of your own home.
Commenting on the training provided to new recruits, Mr. Hettige said, "We provide centralized training in order to maintain our set standards, through our training academy located in Colombo, which includes a team of qualified trainers. The initial training starts with an induction training at the branch level. The new recruits are then sent to Colombo for the basic course which is one week in duration. Recruits are then sent back to their respective branches to work under the supervision of seniors. Through the training officers who are located at every branch, "on the job" training sessions are also conducted. After completing one year of training new recruits are sent back to the Training Academy in Colombo for a refresher course which is followed by an examination in which they are separately graded according to their experience and other qualifications."
CEYLINCO-CISCO operates as an independent entity and has been managing on it's own during the past 32 years of existence, concluded Mr Hettige.
With the expertise of CEYLINCO-CISCO, clients will be able to have peace of mind, knowing that the moment a security threat develops their matter will be attended to with professionalism and expertise. Backed with the capability of CISCO Singapore the CEYLINCO-CISCO group is definitely your ideal choice of partner for a safe and secure tomorrow.
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