Inspector-General of Police Hillary Mutyambai has issued a statement after police officers guarding the residences of Deputy President William Ruto were reorganized on Thursday, August 26.
In a statement addressed to the press, Mutyambai said the VVIP guards were not withdrawn but only reassigned adding that the Presidential Escort Unit continues to provide close protection security to the DP.
"The National Police Service through its various units is mandated to provide security to government buildings and critical infrastructure including security to VVIPs and their residences," Mutyambai said on Thursday.
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In an earlier statement, top sources privy to the development revealed that a number of security officers most of whom are GSUs at the DP’s Karen residence were recalled and replaced by Administration Police.
However, Mutyambai set the record straight stating, "today 26 August 2021 the Security of Government Buildings Unit (SGB) has been deployed to provide general security to the official residence of H.E the Deputy President from General Service Unit (GSU)."
The IG further defended the move adding that it is a normal re-assignment of duties within the National Police Service to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
In the afternoon, DP Ruto’s key allies claimed that the DP's entire security team had actually been withdrawn.
Nominated Senator Millicent Omanga tweeted; “DP Ruto’s security has been withdrawn few days after the president asked him to resign. So, we have sunk this low?”
Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi has also alleged the withdrawal.
“The duo (referring to President Uhuru and CS Fred Matiangi) have just ordered withdrawal of all security officers manning Sugoi, Elgon View home, Karen Residence and all other premises linked to DP Ruto,” Oscar Sudi’s statement read in parts.
