Kanja puts criminals on notice as he takes over as new police IG

Newly-appointed Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has issued a stern warning to criminals, telling them not to challenge his leadership as he steps into his new role at Vigilance House.

Making his first speech as IG, Kanja took a moment to send a clear message to those involved in criminal activities.

"To criminals, let them not test me; I will not give them space," he stated.

During a brief press conference at Jogoo House on Thursday evening, Kanja emphasised that there is no room for any form of crime under his watch.

"All manner of criminals, including cattle rustlers, terrorists, and those who create terror — we don't have space for them. They better look for some other businesses to do. That is my message to them," the IG warned.

Kanja also expressed gratitude to President William Ruto for entrusting him with the responsibility of overseeing the country's security.

The Inspector General also called on Kenyans to take an active role in safeguarding the country by working closely with security agencies.

He urged citizens to embrace their civic duty as watchdogs to help combat crime and ensure national security.

"Work with the service so that we can ensure that there's safety and security in our country," Kanja appealed.

Kanja's appointment follows the sudden resignation of his predecessor, Japhet Koome, who stepped down on July 12, 2024, at the height of anti-government protests led by Gen Z.

The protests were marked by widespread criticism of police actions, with reports of excessive force used to suppress unarmed demonstrators, leading to deaths and injuries.

Kanja's law enforcement career spans nearly four decades.

Over the years, he has risen through the ranks to reach the top echelons of the National Police Service (NPS).

Before his appointment, Kanja had served as the commandant of the General Service Unit (GSU) since 2018.

He was initially appointed as acting IG following Koome's resignation, later being replaced in that role by Deputy IG Administration Police, Gilbert Masengeli, after he was nominated IG.

Kanja's illustrious career includes serving in several key positions within the police service. He was once the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Commandant of the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU), and the Director of Operations at the NPS.

Throughout his 39 years of service, Kanja has worked across various regions of Kenya, including Nairobi, Coast, Eastern, and Rift Valley, where he also received extensive training both locally and internationally.

Kanja's journey in the police force began in 1985 when he joined in as a police constable.

He steadily moved up the ranks, being promoted to Police Corporal, Acting Inspector of Police, Inspector of Police (IP), Chief Inspector of Police, Acting Superintendent of Police, Superintendent of Police, Senior Superintendent of Police, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police, and eventually reaching the position of Senior Assistant Inspector General.

As Kanja takes charge of the country's security apparatus, Kenyans await to see how he will tackle the pressing issues of crime and maintain law and order across the country.