The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word GUARDIANS
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
G
U
A
R
D
I
A
N
S
Buddy explains!

The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does GUARDIANS mean?
GUARDIANS noun- Someone who guards, watches over, or protects.
- A person legally responsible for a minor (in loco parentis).
- A person legally responsible for an incompetent person.
- A superior in a Franciscan monastery.
- A major or final enemy; boss.