The newly formed National Government Administration Police Unit (NGAPU) has officially appointed Charles Mutuma as its Commandant, marking a significant step in enhancing the country’s security infrastructure.
The announcement, made on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, by the Ministry of Interior, also confirmed that the unit is now fully operational.
NGAPU was created in response to the growing need for a coordinated security approach at the grassroots level, with a mandate to support government administrators in executing their duties.
As Commandant, Mutuma will be responsible for overseeing the unit’s deployments and ensuring that its operations align with national security objectives. He will report directly to the Deputy Inspector General (APS).
Role of Charles Mutuma
Mutuma, who holds a Master of Arts in Security Management and Police Studies, is a highly experienced officer who has risen through the ranks within the Administration Police Service (APS). His appointment was widely welcomed due to his professional reputation and leadership qualities, which were key to his promotion to Assistant Inspector General (AIG).
The Ministry of Interior praised Mutuma for his expertise, noting that his experience would be crucial in leading NGAPU to achieve its mission of enhancing security and supporting government initiatives.
“In his new role, Mutuma is expected to lead NGAPU in fostering stronger community engagement and ensuring that security measures are more aligned with national goals,” the Ministry of Interior said in a statement.
Launched in January 2025, NGAPU is tasked with supporting chiefs and their assistants in maintaining law and order, addressing local security challenges, and ensuring community safety.
The unit will tackle a range of issues, including outlawed local gangs, gender-based violence (GBV), the spread of illicit brews and narcotics, and conducting high-risk security operations.
PS Raymond Omollo, CS Kipchumba Murkomen, and IG Douglas Kanja during a security briefing. PHOTO/@InteriorKE/ x
With its headquarters in Nairobi, NGAPU also has subsidiaries at regional, county, sub-county, divisional, and locational levels. At its inception, the Ministry of Interior confirmed that 6,000 police officers had been assigned to the unit, with approximately two officers per chief across the country. This structure aims to provide a more localised, responsive security presence.
Tackling local security issues
The formation of NGAPU comes at a time when there is heightened concern over security in various parts of the country. A recent incident in Angata Barrikoi, where a group of goons raided a General Service Unit (GSU) camp, highlighted the need for a more robust and coordinated security approach.
The goons destroyed structures and removed iron sheets from the camp in apparent retaliation for a directive issued by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja.
Following clashes that resulted in five deaths, IG Kanja emphasised the importance of improving coordination between law enforcement agencies and local communities. The deployment of NGAPU officers is expected to address this gap and strengthen efforts to maintain peace in areas affected by intercommunal conflicts and lawlessness.
By providing enhanced security at the grassroots level, NGAPU will help prevent similar incidents from recurring.
IG Douglas Kanja during a security briefing. PHOTO @InteriorKE/ x
In addition to addressing local security challenges, NGAPU is also tasked with enforcing national policies and laws, working alongside other government agencies to ensure that policies on security, public safety, and law enforcement are implemented effectively.
With its clear mandate and well-structured deployment, NGAPU is positioned to play a critical role in stabilising local security and supporting national security objectives. The unit will also work closely with communities to foster a relationship of trust and collaboration, ensuring that the public remains engaged in maintaining peace and order.
As Commandant, Mutuma is expected to use his experience and expertise to guide NGAPU in addressing the security challenges faced by communities. His leadership, combined with the robust support structure of the unit, promises to strengthen Kenya’s security apparatus and improve the safety of citizens across the country.
