John Onyango, the Head of the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau, has been appointed as the new Deputy Director of Criminal Investigations. Onyango, who previously served as an Assistant Inspector General (AIG) and held the position of Nyanza region DCI boss, steps into his new role following the retirement of Nicholas Kamwende.
The handover ceremony took place at the DCI headquarters in the Mazingira Building, with Mohammed Amin, the current Deputy Director of Criminal Investigations, presiding over the event. Amin welcomed Onyango to his new position, expressing confidence in his capabilities to contribute effectively to the ongoing efforts in combating crime and ensuring public safety.
This appointment comes amidst a wave of retirements expected within the National Police Service, with more than 20 senior police officers anticipated to retire this year. Among those retiring are AIGs Gideon Ngumi, Philip Ndolo, Frederick Lai, Noah Mwivanda, Bashane Omar, and Edward Mwamburi, as well as several other high-ranking officials including Lilian Muli, Nicholas Njururi, Maurice Kiplangat, Esther Wangeci, and Joseph Napeiyan, among others.
As part of the transition, Manasse Musyoka, the Nyanza region police boss, has also retired, making way for Patrick Tito, the former commandant of Kenya Police Railways and Ports Commandant, to assume the role. Additionally, Amin has initiated transfers for Sub-County DCI bosses in Langata, Starehe, and Kasarani within Nairobi, reflecting organizational changes within the force.
Last year, the government reaffirmed its commitment to providing necessary support to retired officers, enabling them to continue contributing to security and safety initiatives within their communities. This support aims to facilitate their seamless integration into administrative structures, fostering collaboration between retired and active personnel to enhance overall security measures and safeguard the well-being of citizens and their property.
The appointment of John Onyango as Deputy Director of Criminal Investigations underscores the National Police Service’s dedication to ensuring continuity and effectiveness in law enforcement operations. With a seasoned professional like Onyango at the helm, alongside ongoing efforts to address retirements and organizational changes, the police force remains steadfast in its mission to uphold justice, combat crime, and serve the public interest.