A new service now allows members of the public in Kenya to request police officers for private security duties through an official government process.
The arrangement is offered by the National Police Service and is accessible online through the eCitizen government portal. Under the program, individuals, companies, and organizations can hire police officers to provide security during events, protect businesses, or support other special assignments that require additional security presence.
The process begins when an applicant logs in to their eCitizen account and goes to the police services section. From there, the user selects the option labeled “Hire of Police Services.” The system then allows the applicant to download an official application form issued by the National Police Service. The form must be filled out with accurate details before submission.
Applicants are required to provide personal information such as their name and contact details. If the request is being made by an organization, the name of the company or institution must also be included.
The form also asks for the location where the officers will be deployed, the number of officers needed, and whether the request involves armed or unarmed personnel.
After completing the form, the applicant submits it through the platform and pays the required fee.
The charges depend on the rank of the officer requested and whether the officer will be armed or unarmed. According to guidelines provided by the National Police Service, hiring an unarmed police constable costs about KSh75 per hour. Armed constables are slightly more expensive and cost around KSh100 per hour.
For higher ranking officers, the charges are also higher. An unarmed inspector costs about KSh150 per hour while an armed inspector is charged at around KSh188 per hour.
The service also allows applicants to request additional security resources such as police patrol vehicles or motorcycle riders. These options are charged at different rates depending on the type of deployment required.
The program is permitted under the National Police Service Act, 2011. The law gives the Inspector General the authority to assign officers to private duties when the deployment serves the public interest. This may include protecting goods, property, or maintaining order during large gatherings.
All payments made for the private use of police officers are sent directly to the National Treasury as required by law. This ensures the funds are handled through official government channels.
The service is expected to provide a structured way for people to access additional security while maintaining oversight from the police service.