Top Security Officers Moved After Breach At Ruto’s Kilifi Event
IG Kanja said he had constituted a special investigations team to conduct what he termed a “swift, thorough, and uncompromising inquiry” into the breach.
By Staff Writer
Sweeping changes have been carried out in the Presidential Escort Unit following a security breach during President William Ruto’s event in Ganze, Kilifi County, earlier today.
The changes were announced hours after the National Police Service confirmed what it described as a “serious security breach” during a thanksgiving event attended by the President.
Inspector General Douglas Kanja said security agencies responded swiftly to contain the situation but acknowledged that any breach involving the Head of State was “unacceptable” and a matter of national concern.
A separate internal police communication this evening confirmed major changes within the Kenya Police Service leadership linked to the Presidential Escort Unit, commonly known as PEU.
Among the changes, Commandant Noah Maiyo was moved from the PEU to Kenya Police Headquarters under the Vigilance department, while Deputy Commandant Juda Mathews Gwiyo was directed to proceed on leave pending retirement.
William Sawe, who had been serving in the Recce Sub Unit, was appointed the new Commandant of the Presidential Escort Unit. George Kirera was elevated from Staffing Officer Personnel PEU to Deputy Commandant PEU.
The reshuffle also affected officers attached to the elite Recce Sub Unit, with Josphat Sirma appointed Commanding Officer of the unit, while Rere Kipkoech was transferred from Deputy SOB1 to Police Headquarters Vigilance.
The changes were signed by Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat.
IG Kanja said he had constituted a special investigations team to conduct what he termed a “swift, thorough, and uncompromising inquiry” into the breach.
“I have also ordered immediate changes to the security detail responsible for the President’s protection in order to strengthen protocols and seal any existing vulnerabilities,” Kanja said.
The police boss warned that any attempts to breach security at public events involving national leaders would be met with the full force of the law.
The latest incident adds to growing scrutiny over presidential security arrangements during public engagements, especially events drawing large crowds during the President’s ongoing tours across the country.
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