Wednesday 09th September, 2026 08:14 AM|
Kenya’s National Police Service (NPS) has offered a glimpse into the work of two specialised units tasked with protecting diplomats, foreign missions and tourists across the country.
In a video posted on X on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, the NPS highlighted the duties of the Diplomatic Police Unit (DPU) and the Tourist Police Unit, whose work extends beyond conventional policing.
The Diplomatic Police Unit is responsible for providing security to diplomatic establishments, including embassies, High Commissions and other foreign missions.
The officers operate in sensitive environments, particularly around diplomatic hubs such as Gigiri, where they interact regularly with diplomats from different countries.
Halima Wario, a Deputy Officer Commanding Station (OCS) in the Diplomatic Police Unit, described the assignment as a delicate responsibility because of the nature of the people the officers serve.
“Being in Diplomatic Police Unit, it is a very crucial unit because you are dealing with the diplomats from various countries and it is a very delicate duty,” Wario said.
She explained that officers serving in command positions also act as a link between police officers, diplomats and senior police leadership.
“As a deputy OCS, I am the link between the officers, the diplomats, and my senior officers,” she said.
The role requires officers to maintain professionalism and discretion while responding to security concerns around diplomatic premises and personnel. Their conduct can also have implications for Kenya’s diplomatic relations with other countries.
Anwar Kusimba, another officer featured by the NPS, said the unit’s work involves interacting with diplomats from different parts of the world.
“We interact with various people from different countries who are diplomats here,” Kusimba said.
He added that serving diplomats contributes to Kenya’s standing internationally.
“And I believe by virtue of serving them, we are making sure that Kenya stays on the map at the top,” he said.
What does the Tourist Police Unit do?
The NPS also highlighted the Tourist Police Unit, which focuses on the safety and security of visitors travelling around Kenya.
Tourist police officers provide security assistance, guidance and support to visitors as they explore the country. Their work is particularly important in tourist destinations, where the safety and experience of visitors can influence Kenya’s tourism reputation.
Unlike conventional policing, their role involves significant interaction with people who may be unfamiliar with Kenya, its security environment, local communities and transport systems.
The officers therefore serve not only as security personnel but also as a point of assistance for tourists who may require directions, information or help during their stay.
The NPS said the work of the two specialised units demonstrates how policing extends into areas that are critical to Kenya’s international relations and tourism industry.
While diplomatic policing focuses on protecting foreign missions and maintaining security around diplomatic engagements, tourist policing seeks to ensure visitors can experience Kenya in a safe and welcoming environment.
Together, the units form part of the specialised services through which the National Police Service seeks to strengthen security, public confidence and Kenya’s international image.
