Gilbert Masengeli: Cop Living with Disability Recalls New AP Boss Saving His Life in Fierce Battle

 

Chief Inspector (CI) Boniface Mutua SS dancing to popular song Mwanawamberi with Gilbert Masengeli 

Gilbert Masengeli, the beloved Administration Police officer, is the new 'sheriff' in town after President William Ruto appointed him the Deputy Inspector General leading the Administration Police Service (APS) and the Kenya Police Service (KPS). Chief Inspector (CI) Boniface Mutua SS dancing to popular song Mwanawamberi with Gilbert Masengeli.  Why did retired and working APs dance for Masengeli? When Chief Justice Martha Koome began her speech after swearing in the newly appointed Masengeli, she noticed the large crowd both inside her office and around the corridors outside the court. The crowd, consisting of uniformed officers in their service colours, notably the green APS uniform, painted the Supreme Court green. Another surprising group were the retired officers, led by Keitany Rtd AIG, and the civilian staff from Jogoo House, including cleaners and electricians.  "They had all come to celebrate DIG Gilbert Masengeli, affectionately known as Daddy," Chief Inspector (CI) Boniface Mutua SS, who was among the many senior and junior officers present, told TUKO.co.ke. Historically, APS commanders were drawn from the military, the Kenya Police Service, or the National Government administrators. What happened to Chief Inspector Boniface Mutua? Mutua, a paraplegic officer, was injured by an IED during a border patrol in Wajir County and was also seen dancing for him in his wheelchair. The inspector is a member of the Special Operations Group (SOG), a tactical team from the APS that participates in deep counter Terrorism Operations in a Multi-Agency organisation. "During the initial deployment of the first batch of SOG Warriors, DIG Masengeli led his team to Garissa County for operations along the volatile Kenya-Somalia border, where terror attacks were frequent. The team prepared to secure the area, and later that night, they were attacked by terrorists," shared Mutua. "The SOG Warriors, led by the battle-hardened DIG Masengeli, repelled the attackers with maximum force, driving them back into the forests towards the Somalia border and neutralising them after several hours," he added. Mutua and Masengeli dance together When DIG Masengeli joined Mutua at AP Headquarters, it was a poignant moment recalling nearly five years ago when an IED (bomb) in Wajir County left CI Mutua paralysed on the lower part of the body and another officer, APC Karanja SS, blind. "DIG Masengeli urgently arranged for an air evacuation for the wounded officers. This shared history brought tears to many officers' eyes as they watched the two dance together," said a colleague. This tale of triumph within the APS is a testament to their resilience. The celebration of DIG Masengeli’s appointment and Mutua’s recognition exemplifies the deep respect and camaraderie among the officers. Special appreciation to the Warrior's family. The Warriors achieved their goal, and the cost underscores their dedication. "As the warriors say, we find, we fight, we stand...Huaaaa. May this story remind us of the sacrifices made by our officers and highlight their journey," he said.

by  Susan Mwenesi