IG Kanja advises officers returning from Haiti to avoid 'parasitic' friends

Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja on Wednesday delivered a blunt warning to officers returning from the Haiti mission, telling them that many people--including sudden admirers--would try to take advantage of their allowances.

He urged them to remain alert, disciplined and financially sober as they settle back home.

Mr Kanja reminded the officers that only part of their mission allowances had been released so far, and that the rest would be paid once United Nations funds are cleared.

He cautioned them against making rushed financial decisions or falling for opportunists who would appear “friendly” only because they expect the officers to come home with money.

“You have earned this money through risk and service. Use it well,” Mr Kanja said, warning them against reckless spending, frivolous commitments and pressure from people seeking a share of their earnings.

He advised the returnees to prioritise investments that secure their future and protect their families.

The IG also urged the contingent to apply the experience gained in Haiti to strengthen policing at home.

He said their mission abroad was not the end of their contribution to global peace, but a foundation for higher expectations within the National Police Service.

After Mr Kanja’s warning, the focus shifted to honouring the officers’ service and sacrifice.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen led the gathering in a minute of silence for the three Kenyan officers who died while serving in the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM).

“What many had viewed as an impossible mission has, through dedication and courage, delivered commendable progress,” Mr Murkomen said as he delivered President William Ruto’s message of condolence and congratulations.

He praised the contingent for lifting Kenya’s profile in global peace and security.

National Security Advisor Ambassador Monica Juma commended the officers for their selflessness, saying their work offered hope to communities far from home and reinforced Kenya’s commitment to international peace efforts.

Deputy Inspector-General of the Administration Police Service Mr Gilbert Masengeli welcomed the team “with pride and deep respect”.

Mr Masengeli noted that their discipline in unfamiliar terrain showed that Kenyan police officers remain among the best in the world.

He paid tribute to the three fallen officers and assured the returnees of full support from the APS.

Also present were DIG–KPS Eliud Lagat, GSU Commandant Mr Ranson Lolmodooni, Principal Deputy–DIG APS Dr Masoud Mwinyi, NPCE ‘A’ Campus Commandant Mr Isaac Alimaa, NPS Director of Human Capital Dr Michael Wanderi, BPU Commandant Mr Davies Lomwatu, APS Director of Gender and Welfare Mr James Kamau, and APS Director of Logistics Mr Wambua Kisyungu.