Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has issued a firm warning to officers assigned to VIP protection duties, emphasizing strict adherence to the law. His remarks came during the Sensitisation Forum on New Service Standing Orders and Police Reforms held at the National Police Leadership Academy in Ngong on August 12, 2026.
Highlighting concerns about the VIP security unit's performance, Kanja acknowledged that the unit requires closer oversight. He stressed that officers involved in protecting high-profile individuals must not operate beyond legal boundaries under any circumstances.
Accountability for Misconduct
IG Kanja made it clear that any breach of the law by VIP security officers would result in personal accountability, with no protection from the police service for unlawful or excessive actions.
"I've mentioned VIP protection because that is an area that we have not been doing very well. Officers must, at all times, operate within the framework of the law," Kanja stated. "Any officer who deviates will be held responsible because we will not condone excesses."
This warning follows public outcry after the fatal shooting of youth mobiliser Cecil Ouma by a police bodyguard assigned to Youth and Sports Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs in Nairobi. Police Constable Rashid Charo is the suspect in the incident that occurred in late June 2026.
Additionally, the IG's caution comes amid multiple security breaches involving President William Ruto’s protection detail, including a notable incident in Ganze where a civilian carrying a Bible reached the President’s podium in May 2026. These events prompted immediate personnel changes within the VIP security team.
Police Training and Deployment Updates
Beyond VIP security, IG Kanja announced the imminent graduation of a new cohort of police officers from various training colleges, with ceremonies expected between late August and early September. These officers, including senior commanders, will be deployed to support ongoing policing efforts.
The new recruits are slated to bolster the Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit (NMPU), a specialized team working closely with Nairobi County authorities to enhance security for residents and visitors.
