The security apparatus surrounding Nigel Farage and other senior Reform UK figures has been thrown into chaos after the party's primary protection firm abruptly terminated their services, the Daily Mail can reveal.
Security Withdrawal Sparks Alarm
Professional security teams assigned to protect Reform UK's most prominent figures have been dramatically scaled back or completely withdrawn after the party allegedly failed to settle a substantial six-figure security bill. Multiple sources within the security industry confirm that protection for Mr Farage has been "decimated" following the contract termination.
Zia Yusuf's Vital Role Exposed
At the heart of this security crisis lies Zia Yusuf, a wealthy British-Sri Lankan entrepreneur and former Farage bodyguard who had been bankrolling the party's security operations. Mr Yusuf, who sources describe as acting as a "human shield" for the Reform leader during the intense election campaign, had been personally covering security costs that the party couldn't afford.
Financial Strain and Protection Gaps
The security vacuum has left Reform UK's leadership exposed during a period of heightened political tension. Insiders report that:
- Professional close protection teams have been significantly reduced
- Security coverage for key events and public appearances has been compromised
- The party's ability to respond to potential threats has been severely limited
Election Campaign Fallout
The security collapse comes amid ongoing concerns about politician safety following several high-profile incidents in recent years. During the general election campaign, Mr Farage faced multiple security scares, including objects being thrown at him and requiring rapid extraction from hostile crowds.
One security professional familiar with the situation told the Daily Mail: "The protection around Nigel has been decimated. When you have a high-profile figure like Farage, who attracts strong reactions from both supporters and detractors, proper security isn't optional—it's essential."
Questions Over Political Funding
The security funding crisis raises broader questions about Reform UK's financial management and resource allocation. The revelation that a private individual had been subsidising critical security operations suggests deeper financial challenges within the party structure.
Political security experts emphasise that consistent, professional protection is non-negotiable for high-profile figures in today's volatile political climate. The current situation leaves Reform UK's leadership team navigating uncertain territory without the comprehensive security coverage they previously enjoyed.
