Apex-based TigerSwan markets itself as a company that provides solutions to complex security problems.

At least one group in the Triangle believes that TigerSwan is the problem that needs solving.

The activist group BlackwaterWatch is holding a community forum Tuesday, Oct. 20 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Halle Cultural Arts Center in downtown Apex. The 75-minute documentary “Iraq for Sale: The War Profiteers” will be shown followed by a discussion.

BlackwaterWatch spokesperson Christian Stalberg said the event is being held as a way to inform town residents about the company and its military-like operations in Iraq.

“From talking to people in Apex I’ve learned that not many people know the company is located in their town,” said Stalberg.

Stalberg claims that TigerSwan is an offshoot of the infamous military security contractor Blackwater, which is also headquartered in North Carolina. He notes that company founder Jim Reese is a former Blackwater vice president.

“A lot of money is being spilled in the Middle East right now,” said Stalberg. “So you are beginning to see a lot of copycat companies. That is very disturbing.”

Stalberg calls TigerSwan a “mercenary” company that operates in a legal gray area when it comes to accountability.

“They are part of the larger problem,” said Stalberg. “The line between civilian contractors and military personnel is being blurred.”

TigerSwan was contacted by The Apex Herald but refused to comment.

According to its website, TigerSwan “delivers risk mitigation and crisis management solutions to governments and private corporations worldwide. The company provides integrated solutions to potential and difficult challenges. TigerSwan’s services include security, corporate intelligence, investigations, training for military and law enforcement, and program implementation and management.”

TigerSwan relocated from Cary to 3452 Apex Peakway earlier this year to allow for future growth. CEO Jim Reese and company president Brian Searcy are both veterans of the U.S. Army’s Delta Force and have over 40 years of combined military experience.

For more information about BlackwaterWatch visit http://blackwaterwatch.net.