The government has announced an upcoming police recruitment, marking the first such exercise under President William Ruto’s administration.

The move comes amid heightened security concerns and ongoing modernisation efforts within the National Police Service (NPS).

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, while commissioning a batch of mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles in Nairobi yesterday, said the recruitment would be transparent.

The date and specific number of recruits needed would be communicated later.

“We are working with the National Police Service Commission to ensure technology is deployed so that all citizens see a more transparent recruitment process, ensuring that officers who join the service come through integrity and continue serving with integrity,” he said.

The new vehicles are designed to protect officers from landmines and improvised explosive devices while conducting operations in high-risk areas like northern areas where banditry and cattle rustling are rife. The first batch was deployed last year.

“Because of this investment, we have seen a significant reduction in criminal activities, particularly in areas such as Kerio Valley, where research shows that banditry cases have reduced by 70 per cent,” said the CS.

Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo termed the commissioning as a significant step in strengthening security.

“For over 10 years, there was no significant investment in this sector. This programme seeks to bridge that gap and enhance the capacity of our officers,” he said.

Douglas Kanja, the Inspector General of Police, credited the special-purpose vehicles with improved officers’ safety and operational effectiveness.

“Before these vehicles, we faced significant challenges in areas like Meru, North Rift, and North Eastern. But now, the situation has improved significantly.”

He emphasised the need for regular maintenance of the vehicles to ensure their longevity.

“Good maintenance contracts are key to the survival of these motor vehicles. As we know, this is something that is going to happen because we are going to plan a very important meeting and those who are maintaining these vehicles,” he said.