Citizen's Arrest UK Law 2026 — What You Can (and Can't) Do
The short version: Citizen's Arrest UK Law 2026 — What You Can (and Can't) Do — published rates, real UK playbook, SIA-licensed.
Citizen's arrest powers in England and Wales come from Section 24A of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE). They are narrower than most people think, and getting them wrong is the fastest way for a member of the public — or an unlicensed door staffer — to end up arrested themselves. This is the 2026 plain-English guide for the UK.
The Power in One Paragraph
Any person may arrest, without warrant, someone who is committing an indictable offence, or whom they have reasonable grounds to suspect of committing an indictable offence. Summary-only offences (most low-level public order, simple drunkenness) are excluded.
The Four Conditions in Section 24A(4)
You can only arrest if it appears to you it is not reasonably practicable for a constable to make the arrest instead, and the arrest is necessary to prevent the person: causing physical injury, suffering physical injury, causing loss of or damage to property, or making off before a constable can assume responsibility.
Reasonable Force — How Much Is Too Much
Section 3 of the Criminal Law Act 1967 permits 'such force as is reasonable in the circumstances'. Restraint to the ground for a brief period: usually fine. Strikes after the person is restrained: never. Any use of weapons: virtually never.
What Door Supervisors and CPOs Actually Do
Licensed SIA officers operate under the same Section 24A and Section 3 powers — they have no extra arrest authority. Their advantage is training in restraint, de-escalation and evidence preservation. The phrase 'I'm arresting you under Section 24A of PACE' is said clearly, the time logged, and police called immediately.
When You Should Just Call 999
Whenever it is practicable for a constable to attend. The legal test specifically requires you to consider this first. In a London street with police minutes away, arresting yourself instead of dialling 999 may invalidate the arrest.
Real-World Examples
Shoplifter at the door — usually a lawful arrest if held briefly until police arrive. Pub fight bystander pulling someone off — usually lawful Section 3 force, not an arrest. Stalking a stalker through the street — usually unlawful; call 999.
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About the Author
Roy
Director, VIP Protection Services
Roy is a Director of VIP Protection Services, overseeing SIA-licensed close protection, executive protection, corporate security and residential security across the UK. He personally writes and reviews every guide, checking each against current SIA licensing rules and BS 7858:2019 screening standards before publication.
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- BS 7858:2019 screened (5-year vetting)
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