By Dorothy Musyoka
In a significant step towards modernizing Kenya’s security sector, the government has commissioned the second batch of Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Standard Duty Vehicles at the General Service Unit (GSU) headquarters in Ruaraka.
This milestone is part of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), aimed at strengthening the country’s security forces with advanced technology to combat emerging crimes and secure national borders.
The newly acquired MRAP vehicles will be deployed in the northern regions and other remote areas to address cattle rustling and banditry, which have historically posed security challenges.
The initiative aligns with President William Ruto’s flagship program to enhance security operations through technology and continuous police training.
Speaking at the commissioning Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen highlighted the impressive impact of security operations, noting that banditry cases have reduced by 70 percent.
“I am happy to note that our officers, working in difficult conditions, have managed to address the banditry menace, which has gone down by 70 percent,” stated CS Murkomen.
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare of police officers.
The CS also revealed that efforts are underway to implement the National Taskforce on Police Reforms recommendations, which address critical issues such as mental health support, remuneration, and resource allocation.
“The ministry is in the process of implementing the National Taskforce on Police Reforms report, which deals with the issues of welfare, including mental health,” the CS noted.
Additionally, police officers will undergo continuous training to keep pace with evolving crime trends and technological advancements.
The government also assured that internal disciplinary mechanisms will be upheld, working in collaboration with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), the National Police Service (NPS), and the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) to maintain discipline within the force.
“The internal disciplinary mechanisms should correct the officers and work hand in hand with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), the NPS and the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) to ensure we have a disciplined service,” he added.
In response to public concerns, the government announced an upcoming police recruitment drive, emphasizing a transparent and fair process to protect citizens from fraudulent activities.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by top security officials, including Internal Security PS Dr. Raymond Omollo, NPSC Chairman Eliud Kinuthia, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Deputy Inspector Generals Eliud Lagat (NPS) and Gilbert Masengeli (APS), DCI Director Amin Mohamed, and GSU Commandant Ranson Lolmodooni, among other senior officers.