IG orders inquiry into security incident during Ruto’s Wajir visit

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has ordered an immediate inquiry into a security incident that occurred during a public event in Wajir attended by President William Ruto.

In a press statement issued on February 12, 2026, the National Police Service (NPS) said the incident took place during the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) event.

The police acknowledged that a security incident occurred but stated that the situation was handled promptly and did not compromise the safety of the President or other attendees.

According to the statement, the NPS “wishes to state unequivocally that at no time was the safety of His Excellency the President, other dignitaries, or members of the public compromised.”

The service said officers assigned to the event responded swiftly. It noted that the Presidential Security Team and other officers on the ground acted with “the utmost professionalism and speed to de-escalate the situation and restore order.”

According to the statement, the individual was “swiftly apprehended,” and the programme continued without further interruption.

Inspector General Kanja has since formed a team to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The statement said the team has been directed to conduct an inquiry within three days.

In its communication, the NPS sought to reassure the public following the incident.

“The National Police Service wishes to reassure the public that it remains steadfast in its commitment to serve and protect,” the statement said.

The press statement was issued by Muchiri Nyaga, Director of Corporate Communication and Spokesperson for the National Police Service, on behalf of the Office of the Inspector General.

The police reiterated that the safety of the President, dignitaries and members of the public was not compromised at any point during the incident.

The incident occurred as the Head of State was addressing beneficiaries of the Nyota Fund when the unidentified man emerged from the crowd and rushed toward the stage.

Security officers quickly intervened, restraining and whisking the man away, momentarily disrupting the President’s remarks.

However, President Ruto intervened, calling on the security detail to handle the situation calmly.

“Eei, so sorry, leave him alone, let him relax there. He should sit down somewhere there, and I will see him later,” the President said, signalling for the officers to ease their response.

The event proceeded without further interruption.