In a reshuffle within the National Police Service (NPS), several key personnel have been moved to new positions to enhance operational efficiency. The changes, announced by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, are aimed at improving the service’s performance and addressing pressing security challenges.
One of the most notable changes is the appointment of Michael Nyaga Muchiri as the new police spokesperson. Muchiri, previously the Kiambu County police commander, takes over from Dr. Resila Onyango, who has been moved to the Diplomatic Police Unit as its new commandant. Muchiri’s appointment comes at a crucial time, with the police service facing increasing scrutiny and the need for clearer communication with the public.
Dr. Onyango’s reassignment to the Diplomatic Police Unit highlights the continued movement of high-ranking officials within the NPS. She now faces the responsibility of overseeing the police unit that handles the safety of diplomats and international dignitaries in the country.
The reshuffle also saw significant changes in regional leadership. Coast Regional Police Commander George Sedah has been transferred to Nairobi to replace Adamson Bungei, a long-serving commander. Bungei, who has been a fixture in the NPS for years, was recalled to police headquarters and appointed as the new Director of Operations. In his new role, Bungei will oversee nationwide police operations, including coordinating the strategic response to criminal activities.
Kwale County Police Commander Ali Nuno was promoted to replace Sedah as the new Coast Regional Police Commander. Nuno is known for his no-nonsense approach to policing, and many believe his leadership will help address the growing security concerns in the coastal region, particularly the rise of criminal gangs that use crude weapons such as pangas.
Other notable appointments include the transfer of Amos Omuga, the head of legal at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), to the National Police Service headquarters in the same capacity. Dr. Mwangi Wanderi, the former head of the National Forensics Laboratory at DCI, has been reassigned as the Director of Human Capital at Vigilance House, replacing Rosemary Kuraru, who moved to DCI.
Meanwhile, the Serious Crime Unit at DCI has a new regional head with Michael Sang taking over as the Eastern Regional Head of DCI. This move is expected to streamline investigations and improve the service’s response to serious crimes in the region.
In a bid to strengthen community relations, Judy Jebet has been appointed as the new head of Community Policing, replacing John Gachomo, who will be redeployed to the police headquarters. Gachomo’s previous role had been crucial in improving police-community engagement, and many hope that Jebet will continue this important work.
As the reshuffle takes effect, it is clear that the National Police Service is positioning itself for a more dynamic and responsive approach to policing in Kenya, especially in addressing the evolving security threats in various regions. The changes are expected to improve coordination, enhance operational effectiveness, and foster better relations between the police and the public.
