17 counties get new Administration Police chiefs in reshuffle

NAIROBI: A new Administration Police commander has been posted to Garissa County as part of a reshuffle affecting 16 other counties.

In the changes, Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinett said the officers will co-ordinate all police functions in their areas of jurisdiction.

The new changes were effected following demands by some local leaders that security commanders be transferred from the area.

"We met the President and told him we are the only people who can sort out our problems. You will see more changes including the National Intelligence Service," an informed source said.

The APs named to be in change are Francis Kirathe (Nakuru), James Akoru (Kwale), Dickson Njiru (Kilifi), Chrispus Mutali (Lamu), Samuel Mbugua (Taita Taveta), Jacob Muriki (Isiolo), Benjamin Cheboi (Meru), Bashane Ahmed (Tharaka Nithi), Martin Ouna (Makueni), Washington Ajuoga (Samburu), Paul Kerich (Narok), Christopher Muthee (Kakamega), Elisha Odhiambo (Vihiga), Stephen Mwinzi (Busia), John Murage (Siaya), Joseph Chepkeitany (Kisumu) and Rashid Yakubu (Garissa).

Boinett said the move is aimed at ensuring efficient execution of police functions at the county level.

"This is in compliance with section 85 of the Security Laws (Amendment) Act 2014 that I appointed the officers to co-ordinate all police functions in their respective counties," he said.

A team appointed to probe the Garissa university attack on April 2 started its work yesterday by meeting some of those who were suspended by Boinett.