GSU Seeks Specialised Tactical Unit, Modern Drones to Fight Security Threats

GSU Seeks Specialised Tactical Unit, Modern Drones to Fight Security Threats

The General Service Unit (GSU) has asked the government to establish a permanent specialised tactical unit and provide modern drones, ammunition and surveillance equipment to strengthen police operations against emerging security threats, including attacks by Al-Shabaab militants.

The requests were presented to the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security during an oversight visit to a police facility in Magadi, Kajiado County.

Senior officers told lawmakers that inadequate funding, outdated equipment and poor working conditions were affecting operational preparedness as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.

GSU Superintendent of Police Dr Benard Kibet Yegon urged the government to formally recognise the specialised tactical unit as a permanent formation within the Kenya Police Service (KPS).

He argued that the unit would improve the police response to emergencies and complex security incidents that may require capabilities beyond those of regular officers.

“Strengthening GSU capability through targeted modernisation and technological advancement is essential to enhance operational effectiveness and preparedness in addressing the evolving national security environment,” Yegon told the committee.

GSU Wants Drones, Surveillance Technology

Yegon called for additional funding to support advanced tactical training, modern ammunition, drones and surveillance technology.

The proposed equipment would strengthen intelligence gathering, improve situational awareness and support responses to security threats.

The GSU also proposed establishing five operational commands and enhancing cooperation with other security agencies to improve coordination during security operations.

The requests come amid continuing concerns over the threat posed by armed groups, including Al-Shabaab, particularly in areas vulnerable to cross-border attacks.

The officers argued that investing in specialised personnel and modern technology would help the service respond more effectively to changing security challenges.

However, the proposals will require consideration by the government and Parliament through the relevant budgeting and approval processes.

Officers Raise Concerns Over Housing Conditions

Beyond equipment and training, the officers raised concerns about accommodation for personnel deployed to remote areas.

They told the committee that some officers were living in worn-out tents that offered inadequate protection against harsh weather conditions.

The officers said better accommodation was necessary to support personnel working in difficult environments and maintain their operational readiness.

Yegon also called for a review of deployment allowances, revealing that officers serving in the specialised unit received KSh2,000 per month despite the risks associated with their assignments.

He further urged the government to implement a special operations allowance that had previously been approved for another specialised formation.

The officers argued that reviewing allowances would help address the financial challenges faced by personnel assigned to demanding security duties.

Lagat Reveals KSh70 Million in Allowance Arrears

Deputy Inspector-General of Police Eliud Lagat raised concerns over delayed payments, revealing that the Kenya Police Service was struggling with KSh70 million in allowance arrears.

He told lawmakers that some officers had gone two or three months without receiving their payments and asked the committee to consider the issue in the next supplementary budget.

“I would humbly ask that you have a look at it in the next supplementary budget. Already, we have arrears of Sh70 million. Most officers have not been paid for the last two or three months, and we are struggling with that issue,” Lagat stated.

The arrears, he said, had created challenges for officers who depend on their allowances while carrying out their duties.

Police Seek KSh60 Million for Transfers Ahead of 2027 Polls

Lagat also requested KSh60 million to facilitate the transfer and rotation of police officers across the country, including personnel stationed in Mandera, Busia and Narok.

He urged the government to complete the transfers before December 2026, giving officers time to familiarise themselves with their new stations before election-related deployments.

The request comes as security agencies begin preparations for the 2027 General Election, when police will be expected to maintain law and order across the country.

MPs Promise to Review Funding Requests

Committee chairperson and Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo pledged to review the requests and identify priority areas for possible funding in the forthcoming supplementary budget.

He indicated that other proposals could be considered during the next financial year’s budget estimates.

The discussions highlighted the competing demands facing the police service, including equipment modernisation, officer welfare, operational readiness and election security.

The next step will depend on the committee’s assessment and the government’s available resources as security agencies seek funding to strengthen their capacity ahead of the 2027 polls.

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GSU Seeks Specialised Tactical Unit, Modern Drones to Fight Security Threats