MATUGA, Kenya — Senior officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) are holding a high-level strategic retreat aimed at strengthening investigative capacity and addressing emerging national security threats.
The forum, currently underway at the Kenya School of Government in Matuga, Kwale County, has brought together senior commanders and investigative leaders from across the country to review security challenges and enhance investigative strategies.
Participants are also discussing ways to improve coordination among investigative units as crime becomes increasingly complex and transnational.
During the retreat, Douglas Kanja, the Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, commended the Directorate’s leadership for convening the forum, describing it as timely and necessary.
Kanja said modern security threats require coordinated institutional responses.
“The threats we face today are complex, interconnected and transnational in nature. They cannot be confronted through isolated efforts. They demand robust investigative excellence supported by sustained and seamless partnerships across institutions,” he said.
Inter-agency cooperation
The Inspector General also highlighted ongoing cooperation between investigative and oversight institutions, including the Asset Recovery Agency, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.
He said the collaboration among the agencies strengthens the country’s capacity to detect, investigate, and prosecute complex financial crimes such as money laundering, corruption, and terrorist financing.
“When our institutions work together, we amplify our investigative power. This collaboration is crucial in safeguarding the nation’s economic stability and protecting our institutions from criminal exploitation,” Kanja added.
Strengthening investigative standards
Speaking at the retreat, DCI Director Mohamed Amin said the gathering provides an opportunity for reflection, professional learning, and strategic planning for the Directorate’s leadership.
He said the retreat allows senior officers to sharpen investigative and leadership skills while strengthening cohesion among teams working in demanding operational environments.
Amin highlighted several achievements by the Directorate in recent years, including restructuring investigative units, expanding forensic and digital investigation capabilities, and making significant progress in tackling cybercrime.
He also pointed to successful operations against narcotics trafficking networks and enhanced international collaboration with agencies such as AFRIPOL, Eastern Africa Police Chiefs Cooperation Organisation, Europol, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and INTERPOL.
The DCI Director also referenced his election to the Interpol Executive Committee in November 2025 as Africa’s representative, describing it as a milestone for Kenya’s role in international security cooperation.
Addressing internal challenges
Despite the progress, Amin acknowledged areas requiring improvement within the Directorate.
He cited lapses in investigative standards, discipline, proper handling of arms and ammunition, and the need for greater professionalism when interviewing victims, suspects, and witnesses.
The director also stressed the importance of prioritising the welfare of junior officers, saying the effectiveness of the Directorate depends on the well-being and professionalism of its personnel.
“Our progress must be matched by unwavering discipline, adherence to investigative standards, and a strong commitment to the welfare of our officers,” Amin said.
