The National Police Service has announced sweeping changes within the Presidential Escort Unit (PEU) following a security breach during a public event attended by President William Ruto in Ganze, Kilifi County.
In a press release issued on May 24, 2026, Inspector General Douglas Kanja confirmed that the reshuffle took effect immediately as part of efforts to strengthen presidential security protocols.
The changes come hours after a reported disruption during a thanksgiving event in Ganze, where President Ruto was addressing members of the public.
Security Breach at Ganze Event Triggers Immediate Action
According to the statement from the National Police Service headquarters, security agencies moved swiftly to contain the incident and restore order during the event in Ganze.
However, Inspector General Douglas Kanja described any breach involving the Head of State’s security as “unacceptable” and “a matter of the gravest national concern.”
The police chief announced the formation of a special investigations team tasked with conducting what he termed a “swift, thorough, and uncompromising inquiry” into the incident.
Kanja further stated that the government would review and reinforce existing presidential security arrangements to prevent future breaches.
New Leadership at the Presidential Escort Unit
Among the key changes announced, Mr. Noah Kirwa Maiyo was moved from his position as Commandant of the Presidential Escort Unit to Kenya Police Headquarters Vigilance.
Mr. William Sawe, who previously served as Commanding Officer of the Recce Sub Unit, was appointed the new Commandant of the Presidential Escort Unit.
Mr. George Kirera was elevated from Staffing Officer Personnel PEU to Deputy Commandant PEU, while Mr. Josphat Sirma was promoted from Deputy Commanding Officer of the Recce Sub Unit to Commanding Officer of the same unit.
Meanwhile, Mr. Juda Mathews Gwiyo, who served as Deputy Commandant PEU, was directed to proceed on leave pending retirement.
Another officer, Mr. Rere Kipkoech, was transferred from Deputy SOB1 to Kenya Police Headquarters Vigilance.
Authorities cautioned that any deliberate attempts to compromise security at state functions would attract strict legal consequences.
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