DIG Lagat urges GSU recruits to earn, protect public trust

Lagat said the discipline, resilience and determination developed during the recruits’ rigorous training would be tested in the field, where officers would confront difficult situations and be required to make critical decisions, including when they are not under scrutiny.

Addressing Recruits’ Detail 1B/2025 on Tuesday during a full-dress parade rehearsal at the National Police College Embakasi “B” Campus, the DIG said the demanding GSU training programme was intended to prepare officers for the realities of security operations while testing their endurance and character.

“What I have seen this morning is endurance, discipline and determination,” Lagat said.

He urged the recruits to carry those qualities into active service, warning that their conduct in challenging situations would ultimately define their character as police officers.

“You will face difficult people, difficult situations, and moments when nobody is watching. That is when your discipline will matter most and those situations will reveal your character,” he said.

Lagat called on the recruits to exercise police authority with restraint and professionalism, stressing that effective policing requires officers to protect the public while confronting security threats.

“Be courageous, but remain professional. Be firm, but humane. Be disciplined, exercise sound judgment and always respect the rights and dignity of the people you serve,” he said.

The DIG said the effectiveness of the GSU should not be measured solely by its ability to respond to security threats, but also by how well its officers protect the people they are mandated to serve.

“The strength of the GSU is not only in how well you confront the enemy. It is also in how we protect the people we have sworn to serve,” Lagat said.

With the recruits nearing completion of their training and preparing for their pass-out parade and deployment, Lagat described the transition to active duty as the beginning of an even greater responsibility.

“Now prepare for the toughest job yet, that of earning and keeping the trust of the Kenyan people,” he said.

Lagat, who previously served as GSU Commandant, also reflected on his connection to the unit, telling the recruits that the Embakasi parade ground was familiar to him from his previous assignments.

“I have stood on this parade many other times on different missions. Having served as the Commandant of the General Service Unit, this place has always been home to me,” he said.

He urged the recruits to embrace the responsibility and pride that comes with serving in the specialised police formation while safeguarding its reputation.

“I know the pride that comes with being part of the General Service Unit family. I now ask you to wear it with honour and courage,” he said.

The DIG commended the instructors for their commitment to training the recruits and maintaining the standards expected of officers entrusted with the country’s security.

As they prepare to graduate and take up their assignments, Lagat urged the recruits to remain disciplined, focused and committed to professional excellence.

“Make the service proud; above all, make the people of Kenya proud,” he said.