Senior Assistant Police IG Lazarus Opicho dies

Opicho died on Monday night while undergoing treatment at the Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi following an illness. 

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja led the security force in mourning the veteran officer, describing him as a dedicated, honest, and exemplary servant whose leadership within the National Police Service (NPS) will be deeply missed.

As the head of the SGB and VIP Protection Unit, a specialized wing under the Administration Police Service (APS), Opicho was charged with the critical responsibility of safeguarding vital national infrastructure, key dignitaries, and judicial officers.

Prior to this role, he made significant contributions to institutional security as the pioneer commandant of the Judiciary Police Unit. 

His tenure there was marked by extensive efforts to fortify protection details for judges and court staff across the country.

Opicho's career also placed him at the center of high-profile national events. 

During the 2024 Gen Z protests, he drew public attention after contacting the bodyguard and driver of High Court Judge Lawrence Mugambi to establish the judge's whereabouts. 

Addressing the subsequent legal and public scrutiny, Opicho offered a formal apology to Justice Mugambi, clarifying that his inquiries were born out of genuine security concerns following the tragic fatal shooting of a magistrate at the Makadara Law Courts. 

He maintained that his sole intent was to ensure the safety of the judicial officer, citing his deep, long-standing ties to the judiciary. 

Following this period, he was promoted to Senior Assistant Inspector General and assigned to lead the vital VIP protection unit, a post he held until his death.