Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has directed an immediate three-day inquiry following a security incident that briefly disrupted President William Ruto’s speech during the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) event in Wajir County.

The event, aimed at empowering youth through skills training, entrepreneurship, and job creation, drew hundreds of participants from across the North Eastern region.

In a statement issued by the National Police Service (NPS) and shared on its official X account on February 12, 2026, authorities confirmed that an unidentified man breached security protocols and ran towards the podium while the President was speaking.

Security officers, however, acted swiftly to restrain the individual, ensuring the event continued without further disruption.

Investigation launched

The Inspector General has formed a special team to conduct an inquiry within three days. The investigation will focus on identifying procedural gaps that may have allowed the breach and recommend immediate remedial measures.

“The individual involved was swiftly apprehended, and the event proceeded without further interruption. The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has formed a team to conduct an inquiry into the matter within three days, to identify any procedural gaps that may have contributed to this breach, and to take immediate remedial measures,” the statement read in part.

Public safety

The NPS emphasised that at no time was the safety of the president, other dignitaries, or members of the public compromised and praised the Presidential Security Team and ground officers for their professionalism and speed in restoring order.

“The NPS wishes to state unequivocally that at no time was the safety of His Excellency the President, other dignitaries, or members of the public compromised,” the statement added.

The viral video footage shows the man sprinting toward the stage shortly after President Ruto began addressing the crowd.

Security personnel intercepted and restrained him, while the president calmly instructed officers to go easy on the individual and allowed him to sit nearby. The crowd applauded, and the President resumed his speech shortly thereafter.

Security experts noted that even brief breaches raise questions about perimeter control and screening procedures at high-profile events.

The NPS reassured the public of its commitment to maintaining safety at future functions.