Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli led top police commanders to northern Kenya months after he moved from the place he used to call home.
This even as he has on several occasions ignored court summons requiring him to appear and explain the whereabouts of Kenyans believed to have been abducted over Gen Z protests.
Prior to his appointment as the Deputy Inspector General of Administration Police and acting Inspector General of Police, Masengeli was the head of the police elite squad—Special Operations Group.
He arrived in Northern region donning an operation uniform used by the SOG team.
To the officers on the ground, this was a signal he is still one of them.
Masengeli had been leading the 1,000-strong and well-trained unit until July 12 when he was abruptly moved and later named the police boss.
His role also entailed identifying and analysing insecurity early warning signs, budgeting and disseminating resources for security operations, and providing guidance and liaison to special operators.
SOG is an elite police unit under the Boarder Patrol Unit whose main function is to protect the main borders in Kenya.
They are among the best-trained officers in modern police operations, officials say.
SOG works with other government agencies to address terror threats.
Masengeli on Monday flew to Mandera and Wajir counties which are some of the most affected by terrorism.
He was accompanied by DCI director Mohamed Amin and General Service Unit commandant Ranson Lolmodooni.
The purpose of this mission was among others to evaluate the current security situation in the region, which has continually faced security challenges.
The officials engaged with local authorities and enhanced security protocols in the wider Northern region amid persistent attacks by terrorists.
Masengeli said the assessment will provide a comprehensive overview of the regional security landscape and implement effective solutions.
“The outcome of this assessment will pave way in maintaining peace and order in all corners of the nation,” he said.
The region has borne the brunt of many terror attacks because of its proximity to Somalia.
Al Shabaab terrorists cross at will to attack and run back to Somalia amid security operations.
Police have been staging operations in the region to suppress the activities of the terrorists who are at times aided by locals.
Somalia has not had a stable government after the fall of Siad Barre in 1991.
Kenyan troops are in Somalia to pursue and suppress the activities of the terror group.
Insiders say Masengeli was good at operations in general and had mastered how to lead the unit’s work hence their effectiveness in dealing with terror matters.
