NAIROBI, Kenya — The National Government Administration Police Unit (NGAPU), launched earlier this year to bolster grassroots security, is now fully operational following the appointment of Charles Mutuma as its Commandant.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja formally unveiled Mutuma in a ceremony that also clarified the chain of command for the newly formed unit, which had been under scrutiny due to questions about its accountability within the independent National Police Service.
As Commandant, Mutuma will report directly to the Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service (APS).
NGAPU, established in February 2025, is designed to work closely with National Government administrators—including chiefs and assistant chiefs—to deliver community-level security services.
Its broad mandate includes tackling local gangs, enhancing public safety, supporting enforcement of national regulations, and leading the fight against illicit brews, narcotics, and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
The unit will also play a pivotal role in conflict resolution, particularly in areas plagued by intercommunal violence, land disputes, and resource-based conflicts.
It is also tasked with preserving crime scene exhibits and executing high-risk operations in coordination with other state agencies.
IG Kanja praised the formation of the unit as a strategic move to “bridge the policing gap at the community level and provide wananchi with a visible, responsive security presence.”
The team is composed of seasoned APS officers, selected based on public feedback that showed strong preference for their approachable and efficient service.
Citizens cited the Administration Police’s lower bureaucracy and effectiveness in addressing complaints as key reasons for their trust.
Charles Mutuma, now serving as Assistant Inspector General, is a decorated officer with extensive experience in policing and leadership.
He holds two master’s degrees in security management and is currently pursuing a PhD in Security Studies at Kenyatta University.
His appointment is expected to bring structure, professionalism, and renewed focus to NGAPU’s operations, reinforcing the government’s broader efforts to strengthen local security frameworks and community trust in law enforcement.
