TRAG secures a lead in Iraq race

PRIVATE investigation and security specialist The Risk Advisory Group (TRAG) has opened a branch in Baghdad, to become the first Western security firm to set up a permanent base there since the end of the Iraq war.

The London-based company said the office was being opened in response to enquiries from Western companies looking to break into the Iraq market but who are fearful of the poor security in the country.

It will be run by former Special Forces officer Gary Wood, who also worked in royal protection.

Speaking at a conference in London today, Wood said: 'Our personnel in Iraq can put clients in touch with key ontheground business advisers and intermediaries and create local security support resources for businesses.î

Services offered by TRAG include deployment of large armed guard forces, access to major cities such as Basra, armed convoys and close protection by UK military specialists.

Western businesses' enthusiasm for entering what is seen as potentially the Middle East's most vibrant economy has been tempered by the hazardous security situation.