By Andrew Kariuki
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has completed a two-day sensitisation programme aimed at equipping General Service Unit (GSU) recruits with skills to identify, prevent and respond to violent extremism and terrorism-related threats.
The training, held at the National Police College Embakasi ‘B’ Campus, focused on strengthening awareness among recruits about the changing nature of extremist threats, particularly those increasingly influenced by technology, online platforms and evolving recruitment tactics.
According to the DCI, the programme was facilitated by officers from the Directorate of Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) and sought to deepen recruits’ understanding of radicalisation trends, extremist ideologies and the methods used to recruit vulnerable individuals into violent networks.
The sessions exposed recruits to practical approaches for recognising early warning signs of radicalisation, identifying suspicious behaviour and responding effectively to threats linked to violent extremism.
Among the areas covered during the sensitisation were pathways to radicalisation, recruitment patterns used by extremist groups, protective security awareness and identification of suspicious individuals or activities that may pose risks to communities.
Participants were also introduced to emerging extremist threats facing Kenya, with trainers highlighting the role of digital influence and technological advancement in reshaping how extremist networks communicate, recruit and spread propaganda.
The recruits further received training on Kenya’s legal and policy framework guiding efforts to combat violent extremism, alongside the role played by the National Police Service in prevention, intelligence gathering and community protection.
Security officials emphasised the importance of preparedness among officers entering service, particularly as Kenya continues to confront security threats linked to terrorism and organised extremist activity.
The programme forms part of broader efforts by the DCI to improve operational readiness and strengthen the ability of law enforcement officers to respond to emerging security risks.
Authorities say continued training, intelligence-led policing and collaboration between agencies remain key components in efforts to prevent radicalisation, disrupt extremist networks and improve national security.
The sensitisation also underscores an increasing focus on community-centred policing strategies, where officers are expected to work closely with the public to detect warning signs and prevent extremist influence before threats escalate.
