Senior Kenya Police Officers Reshuffled After Ruto Security Breach in Ganze

A major reshuffle within the Kenya Police Service has sparked debate following a recent security scare involving William Ruto during his tour of Ganze, Kilifi County.

In an internal police communication dated May 24, 2026, Deputy Inspector General Eliud K. Lagat announced sweeping changes targeting officers attached to the elite Presidential Escort Unit (PEU) and Recce Squad.

The transfers come after concerns emerged over an alleged security breach during President Ruto’s public engagements in Ganze, where crowd control and close protection arrangements reportedly came under scrutiny.

Among the notable changes, Commandant PEU Noah Kirwa Maiyo was moved to Police Headquarters under the Vigilance Department, while Deputy Commandant Juda Mathews Gwiyo was directed to proceed on leave pending retirement. William Sawe was appointed the new Commandant PEU, with George Kirera elevated to Deputy Commandant.

Other changes saw Josphat Sirma transferred within the Recce Sub Unit, while Rere Kipkoech was redeployed to Police Headquarters Vigilance.

Although the police memo did not directly link the transfers to the Ganze incident, political observers and security analysts believe the changes point to an internal shake-up aimed at tightening presidential security operations.

The developments have triggered widespread discussion online, with Kenyans questioning whether the reshuffle signals dissatisfaction within the security command structure following the President’s recent public appearances.

Government officials are yet to issue a formal statement connecting the changes to the Ganze security scare.