Pepita Ranka, a former chief bodyguard to President Uhuru Kenyatta was appointed as the new North Eastern Regional Police Commander (RPC) amid organizational changes.
According to police headquarters, he will assume his role as RPC for the region starting August 13, where he will be tasked with leading efforts against terrorism and smuggling. READ FULL STORY
Ranka succeeds Bundi Muriithi, who has been reassigned to police headquarters.
A Recce-trained police officer, Ranka has dedicated a significant portion of his career to VIP protection, and his assignment to this region is viewed as an opportunity for professional development.
The announcement of these changes was made by Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Kenya Police, Eliud Lagat.
Lagat has also reassigned all police commanders in Garissa and Mandera Counties.
The police commander for Mandera County, Samuel Mutunga, along with his counterpart in Garissa, John Sichei, have been transferred, and new commanders have been appointed to these positions.
In addition, Stephen Ngetich, the police chief of Kwale, has been relocated to police headquarters, with Ali Nuno taking over his previous role.
Furthermore, at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, Wilhem Kimutai, who led the Land Fraud Unit, was succeeded by Juma Mashua from the Internal Affairs Unit.
Police officials indicated that these changes are intended to enhance operational effectiveness, particularly in North Eastern regions that are currently experiencing a resurgence of attacks by Al Shabaab militants.
