Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has ordered immediate changes to President William Ruto’s security detail following a security breach during a public event in Ganze, Kilifi County.
In a statement issued on Saturday, May 24, the National Police Service (NPS) termed the incident a serious breach after an individual disrupted security arrangements while President Ruto was addressing members of the public during a thanksgiving event.
“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,” ordered Kanja.
In addition, the police boss also ordered an investigation into the incident, with the NPS having constituted a special probe team to look into the matter.
“As the Inspector General of the National Police Service, I have immediately constituted a special investigations team to conduct a swift, thorough, and uncompromising inquiry into how this breach occurred,” stated Kanja.
The police boss reiterated that even though the presidential security detail acted swiftly to intercept the individual, he notes that any situation that endangers the President is a grave concern and ought to be dealt with as seriously as possible.
While insisting that the security of the Head of State is a matter of national security, Kanja stressed that the Sunday incident, which ended up being a harmless gaffe by an anxious supporter, should be treated with the utmost seriousness in the event of any compromise that may arise.
The Sunday incident, which has since sparked widespread questions across the country, saw an individual breach security and make his way toward the president while holding a Bible. However, before he could say anything, he was swiftly tackled by President William Ruto’s security detail, prompting the Head of State to urge his officers to “leave that young man alone.”
In the aftermath of the incident, Ruto appeared to downplay the commotion, saying he would “deal” with the young man later. As of the time of publication, the man’s whereabouts and fate remained unclear.
Meanwhile, Kanja issued a stern warning to the public attending events that involve the president and other key national leaders to adhere to the set security guidelines, and that any other attempt will be met with the fullest wrath.
“I wish to make it clear that all persons attending public events, particularly those involving the President and other national leaders, must strictly adhere to established security procedures and protocols at all times. Any attempt to breach security will be met with the full force of the law,” warned Kanja.
This comes as this year alone, President Ruto’s security has been breached publicly at least twice, with both incidents occurring as individuals managed to charge toward the podium while he was delivering speeches.
More to follow…