Patrick Tito has been appointed the acting Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Kenya Police Service following the stepping aside of DIG Eliud Lagat. Lagat vacated his position on Monday, June 16, to allow for investigations into the death of Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody on June 7.
Tito, a seasoned police officer, had been serving as the Principal Assistant (PA) to the DIG since March 2025. His appointment as acting DIG comes at a time of heightened scrutiny on police operations and accountability. Sources within Vigilance House indicated that Tito’s elevation was a natural progression given his extensive experience and his role as a trusted advisor to Lagat.
Before his assignment as PA, Tito served as the Nyanza Regional Police Commander, a role he took after several years of leading key units including the Diplomatic Police and the Railways Police. His move to Nairobi earlier this year followed the retirement of then-PA to the DIG, Miriam Muli, in February 2025.
Tito’s familiarity with the operations of the Deputy IG’s office is unmatched. He has previously served as Principal Assistant to several former police chiefs including Maj Gen (Rtd) Hussein Ali, Mathew Iteere, David Kimaiyo, and Joseph Boinnet. This experience positions him well to offer continuity and leadership during this transitional period.
Colleagues describe him as a diligent and composed officer, known for his operational knowledge and administrative acumen. His rise through the ranks has been marked by a commitment to discipline and professionalism—qualities that will be crucial as the service navigates the aftermath of the Ojwang case and broader reforms.
As acting DIG, Tito is expected to maintain the momentum of internal police reforms and foster greater public trust. His leadership will also be key in ensuring impartial and transparent investigations into the incident that led to Lagat’s stepping aside.
The Kenya Police Service will be closely watched in the coming weeks, and all eyes will be on Patrick Tito as he steers the force through this sensitive period.
