Police Shake-Up After Security Breach At Ruto Event In Kilifi
News Updated: 25 May 2026 12:02 EAT
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has ordered major changes within the Presidential Escort Unit following a security breach during President William Ruto’s thanksgiving event in Ganze, Kilifi County. The reshuffle came after a young man managed to bypass security officers and briefly reach the President while he was addressing residents.
Presidential Escort Unit Commandant Noah Maiyo was recalled to Vigilance House at the National Police Service headquarters as investigations into the incident began. William Sawe, who previously headed the elite Recce Squad, was appointed as the new commandant of the unit tasked with protecting the Head of State.
The incident occurred during a public gathering linked to the thanksgiving ceremony of Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs. Videos circulating online showed the man carrying a Bible before approaching the President at the podium, causing panic among members of the presidential security team.
Security officers quickly restrained the man and removed him from the stage area as President Ruto remained calm during the commotion. Witnesses at the event said the President later asked officers not to assault the suspect after order was restored.
The changes within the security unit also affected other senior officers. Deputy Commandant Juda Mathews Gwiyo was directed to proceed on leave pending retirement, while George Kirera was appointed the new deputy commandant of the Presidential Escort Unit.
Police authorities also reassigned Josphat Sirma to head the Recce Squad following Sawe’s elevation. Another officer, Rere Kipkoech, was transferred to Vigilance House as part of the wider security reorganization.
Inspector General Douglas Kanja described the incident as a serious breach of presidential security and ordered immediate investigations into how the suspect managed to penetrate several layers of protection surrounding the President.
The Presidential Escort Unit works closely with GSU Recce officers and intelligence personnel to secure the President and First Family during public functions and official engagements across the country. Authorities said the latest changes are intended to strengthen operational efficiency and prevent future security lapses.
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FELIX MAKONA
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