What can never be denied is that President William Ruto’s security is always tight. Looking behind to check for his security detail can be likened to the biblical Lot’s wife who turned into salt upon looking behind.
Whereas the physically imposing Noah Maiyo is the overall head of Dr Ruto’s security as the Presidential Escort Unit commander, there are other men who do all the donkey work to ensure that Commander-in- Chief is always safe.
Noah Maiyo has served as the head of operations at PEU for two years and was in similar position at the Office of the Deputy President for a decade.
An expert in VIP protection having served in the Presidential Escort for more than 30 years, the new commandant is also an ally to the President.
The Presidential Escort Unit is a pivotal component of the Kenya Police Service, with its functions clearly defined in Section 24 of the National Police Service Act, 2011.
The primary responsibilities of the PEU include providing security and protection to the President, the First Family, retired Presidents, the Deputy President, visiting Heads of State and Governments, and any other VIPs as directed by the Inspector-General.Since Ruto’s assumption as President, Maiyo has held the position of Head of Operations within the unit.
His appoitment followed President Ruto’s reassignment of Yiampoy, his longtime head of security, as Director of Operations at Police Headquaters.
A memo issued within the service confirmed Maiyo’s immediate appointment.
Even when the President is inspecting a guard of honour, his bodyguard is often seen walking behind him or sometimes by his side.
Though little is known about him, but there is no denying the fact that he is one of Ruto’s most trusted bodyguards.
Possibly, he is the one who replaced Pepita Ranka who was moved to North Eastern as regional police commander.