NAIROBI, Kenya – The long-serving head of operations in the office of President William Ruto has been promoted to the role of Presidential Escort Unit (PEU) Commandant.
Assistant Inspector General of Police Noah Maiyo, an expert in VIP protection with over three decades of experience, officially assumed the position on Tuesday.
Maiyo’s career in the Presidential Escort Unit has spanned more than 30 years, during which he has become a trusted ally of the President.
Before his recent promotion, Maiyo served as the head of operations at the PEU for two years and held a similar position in the Office of the Deputy President for a decade.
His extensive experience and dedication to duty have made him an invaluable asset to the team responsible for protecting the nation’s top leaders.
Maiyo replaces William Yiampoy, who was reassigned to the police headquarters as the new Director of Operations on July 12.
Yiampoy had worked closely with President Ruto for 12 years, both during his tenure as Deputy President and as President.
The transition in leadership within the PEU is part of a broader reshuffle within the police service.
An internal memo announcing Maiyo’s appointment stated, “Following the deployment of the Unit commandant William Yiampoy to Vigilance as director of operations, this command informs you that Noah Maiyo is the new Presidential Escort Commandant.”
Maiyo’s background includes serving in the General Service Unit (GSU) and the elite Recce Squad, which is specifically tasked with the security of the President, his family, and the Deputy President.
The Recce Squad is renowned for its specialized training in VIP protection and plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of Kenya’s highest officials.
The President and his family are guarded by approximately 200 security personnel, primarily drawn from the GSU’s G-Company, which also provides security at the State House and state lodges.
The PEU is a fully equipped team capable of handling the President and his family’s movements at any time, ensuring their safety and security. They collaborate with local police forces whenever the President travels.
Further changes are anticipated within the police service as new commanders are appointed to their respective positions.
The new Deputy Inspector General of both the Kenya Police Service and the Administration Police Service will likely announce additional leadership appointments.
These changes come amid ongoing reforms in the police service, which aim to enhance operational efficiency and require substantial financial investment.
