Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli recently visited northern Kenya with top police commanders, months after relocating from the area he once called home. Despite several court summons requiring him to explain the whereabouts of Kenyans allegedly abducted during Gen Z protests, Masengeli has yet to respond.
Before his current role as Deputy Inspector General of Administration Police and Acting Inspector General of Police, Masengeli led the Special Operations Group (SOG), an elite police unit. He arrived in the northern region wearing the SOG’s operational uniform, signaling his continued connection to the team.
Masengeli led the 1,000-member, highly-trained unit until July 12, when he was unexpectedly reassigned and later appointed as the police chief. His responsibilities included identifying and analyzing early warning signs of insecurity, managing budgets and resources for security operations, and providing guidance and liaison for special operations.
SOG, a unit under the Border Patrol Unit, is tasked with safeguarding Kenya’s major borders and is noted for its advanced training and modern police operations. They collaborate with other government agencies to counter terrorism threats.
On Monday, Masengeli flew to Mandera and Wajir counties, areas severely impacted by terrorism. Accompanied by DCI Director Mohamed Amin and General Service Unit Commandant Ranson Lolmodooni, Masengeli’s visit aimed to assess the region’s security situation and enhance protocols amidst ongoing terrorist attacks.
Masengeli stated that the assessment would offer a comprehensive view of the regional security landscape and help 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.
