Headquartered in London, GSS Global is a boutique security services provider managed by specialists drawn from the worldwide intelligence community, the law enforcement, the military and the legal communities. The company provides a comprehensive array of consulting and investigation services including due diligence, crisis and risk management, employee screenings and polygraph examinations. The firm also provides aviation security, banking safeguards, and executive protection services.

GSS Global's London office and personnel will be combined with Garda's UK operations, which already provide a full range of consulting, investigation and security services for corporate and government entities throughout Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa. The combined units will operate under the name Gardaworld (GW).

"By joining an outstanding company like Garda, GSS Global can continue to expand its services geographically for our clients," says Nigel Brown, president and CEO of GSS Global, who will be taking on the role of senior managing director of Gardaworld's Consulting and Investigation unit in Europe.

Nigel continues "When seeking a strategic partner for the firm, we were attracted to Garda for several reasons. Garda's founder, Stephan Cretier, shares our strong philosophy of superior client service and brings a fresh approach to security services. Garda has also demonstrated its ability to grow effectively with the addition of Vance International and KSI to its Gardaworld consulting, investigation and global risk unit. Our combined UK operations will provide our international clients with the scope and scale they require."

"The addition of GSS Global enables Garda to continue its strong international expansion from its London based office," says Stephan Cretier, president and CEO of Garda. "GSS Global has established itself as an exceptional player in fast growing sectors such as aviation, pharmaceutical, real estate, eco- terrorism and high technology in emerging markets. Our clients require a comprehensive strategic approach to security throughout the world and GSS Global greatly enhances our capabilities in that regard."

"GSS Global will significantly expand Gardaworld's consulting and investigation practice," adds LeMarque Sheppard, President of Vance International. "Nigel's team is first-rate and we look forward to leveraging their skills in solving a wide array of issues and challenges that our clients face"

In relation with this transaction, Garda will pay a cash amount and will issue 125,590 class A shares of its capital to the seller at a price of $23.40 per issued share.