Gilbert Masengeli has been named as the acting Deputy Inspector General of the National Police Service Kenya.
This comes after Douglas Kanja was confirmed as the Inspector General of National Police Service after Japhet Koome resigned.
OldNaijaHistory brings to you Gilbert Masengeli Biography and other things to know about the new NPS Kenya DIG.
Early Life and Background
Not so much is known about the early life and background of Gilbert Masengeli. This however may not be far-fetched from the nature of his job and the need to protect his loved ones from enemies.
Gilbert Masengeli, an Assistant Inspector General of Police, was leading the 1,000-strong and well-trained Special Operations Group (SOG) until July 12, 2024, when he was abruptly transferred.
The SOG is an elite police unit responsible for protecting Kenya’s main borders. Masengeli’s effectiveness in dealing with terror matters made him a key figure within the unit.
His transfer came after four elite SOG members were killed in an ambush by al-Shabaab militants in Mandera, Kenya.
In his new role, Masengeli has been named the commandant of the Administration Police Training Campus in Embakasi, replacing outgoing commandant James Kamau. The APS (Administration Police Service) has undergone transformations under Noor Gabow since 2018, with specialized units like the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU), Border Police Unit (BPU), and SOG working together to address terror threats.
Appointment
Pending the consideration of the nomination of Douglas Kanja as the Inspector General of the National Police Service by both houses of Parliament, President William Ruto has designated Gilbert Masengeli, the newly appointed Deputy Inspector of the Administration Police Service, as the acting Inspector General of the National Police Service.
In this capacity, Masengeli will oversee the Administration Police Service while awaiting the approval process for Kanja’s appointment.
