Ruto the most guarded DP in Kenya’s history with 257 bodyguards, Matiang’i says

Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiangi has revealed that Deputy President William Ruto is the most guarded DP in Kenya’s history.

Appearing before the Parliamentary Committee on Administration and National Security, Matiang’i said that Ruto has a total of 257 officers deployed to guard him as well as secure his residences and properties.

He explained that the DP’s security is multi-layered with the inner layer having 121 officers from the elite Presidential Escort team which has remained intact.

“On the first layer is a total of 85 officers among them 74 officers from the elite Presidential Escort Unit, 5 General Service Unit officers and 6 DCI officers. The 85 officers are mandated to provide a 24-hour protection of the DP and are under the command of the a Commissioner of Police,” he said.

121 officers make up the second layer and they include officers from the Administration Police Unit and Prison department.

They provide a 24-hour mobile patrol within the DP’s residences.

According to Matiang’i, the second layer of DP security was rearranged and there was no removal.

Further, the third layer, known as the auxiliary security, secures various properties owned by the deputy president.

51 officers are attached to Ruto’s 10 other properties.

Kitengela Gas has six officers, Weston Hotel has four officers while Murumbi Farm has six officers.

Additonally, ADC Laikipia Mutara Ranch has six officers, Dolphine Hotel in Mombasa has six, Mata Farm has six and the DP’s private residence in Elgon View Eldoret has four.

Koitalel Poultry farm Eldoret has four officers as well as his private residence in Kosachei.

Kwae Island Development LTD – Wilson airport that has two hangers and five helicopters has five officers.

Matiang’i dismissed claims that Ruto’s security was disparaged stating that his security was re-assigned not withdrawn as claimed and the move aimed at optimising efficiency.

He says presidential escort that forms the core security of second in command is intact.

“There was no removal of the security personal of the DP, it was a rearrangement. The Inspector General consulted within the structures of security sector before making the changes, it was not a matter of win-score,” he said.

According to Matiang’i, the re arrangement was initiated by the IG Hillary Mutyambai for the reasons he cannot explain in public.