The government has officially appointed Charles Mutuma as the Commandant of the newly formed National Government Administration Police Unit (NGAPU), marking a significant step toward strengthening security at the grassroots level. The appointment was announced by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, who presided over the unveiling ceremony and emphasized NGAPU’s critical role in complementing the work of National Government administrators such as chiefs and assistant chiefs.
Mutuma will report to the Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service (APS) and will be tasked with leading the deployment of officers and ensuring their operations align with the broader national security objectives.
NGAPU, launched in February 2024, was created to fill a policing gap in community-level security operations. The unit draws its personnel from the APS and operates under the authority of the Inspector General. Its mandate includes combating outlawed gangs, enhancing community safety, addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), leading high-risk operations, enforcing regulations, and cracking down on illicit brews and narcotics. It will also handle arrests and preserve exhibits for prosecution.
Beyond law enforcement, NGAPU is expected to play a pivotal role in conflict resolution and peacebuilding, especially in areas plagued by intercommunal clashes, boundary disputes, and competition over natural resources. Additionally, the unit will support the enforcement of national laws and policies in collaboration with other government agencies.
The establishment of NGAPU followed widespread public consultations, during which Kenyans voiced their trust in APS officers due to their perceived approachability, effectiveness, and streamlined complaint handling processes.
Charles Mutuma brings extensive experience to his new role, having steadily risen through the ranks of APS. He was recently promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector General, reflecting his professionalism and dedication to service. Academically, Mutuma holds two master’s degrees in Security Management and Police Studies as well as Leadership and Security Management from Kenyatta University. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Security Studies at the same institution.
His leadership is expected to bring renewed vigor to community-focused policing and deepen trust between security forces and the public across the country.
