The National Criminal Investigations Academy (NCIA) has received a newly constructed 16-classroom training block, expanding its capacity to deliver professional and specialised training in criminal investigations.

The facility, constructed with support from the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), Counter Drug Element (AFCE), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) was officially handed over during a ceremony presided over by the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja and attended by senior NPS leadership, representatives of the United States Government and other strategic partners.

Speaking during the ceremony, IG Kanja said the facility was an important investment in the knowledge, skills and professional capacity required to confront emerging and increasingly sophisticated forms of crime.

He thanked AFRICOM and the U.S. Government for their continued partnership in strengthening the National Police Service’s capacity.

The Director of Criminal Investigations, Mohammed Amin, said the value of the facility would ultimately be measured by the quality of investigators trained within it.

“Every officer trained here represents an investment in stronger investigations, better justice outcomes and safer communities,” he said.

Deputy Inspector-General, Kenya Police Service, Eliud Lagat, congratulated the Director DCI and the NCIA Commandant for the state-of-the-art facility, noting that it matched the standard of the Academy.

Representing AFRICOM, Major General William Temple said the partnership was “ultimately about people and capability,” and that supporting institutions such as NCIA helps build the knowledge and skills law enforcement professionals need to address current and future security challenges.

The 16-classroom block will enable the Academy to run multiple training programmes concurrently, accommodate larger cohorts and enhance the learning environment for officers undertaking specialised and continuous professional development.

The handover marks a significant milestone in strengthening NCIA’s mandate as the National Police Service’s premier institution for the training of criminal investigators, and deepens cooperation between the NPS, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and their international partners.

Among those in attendance were Kamau James, representing the Deputy Inspector-General, Administration Police Service; NCIA Commandant Ibrahim Jillo, Corynne Straron, Senior Regional Security Officer at the US Embassy in Kenya and other senior National Police Service officers.

by Joseph Ng’ang’a