NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 29 — Senior Assistant Inspector General of Police Lazarus Opicho, the Commandant of the Security of Government Buildings (SGB) and VIP Protection Unit, has died.

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Opicho died on Monday night, September 28, 2026, at Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi after an illness, according to colleagues and friends.

His death has prompted tributes from senior officials in the National Police Service and Judiciary, who remembered him for his long service and leadership in policing and security operations.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja mourned Opicho as an honest, dedicated and exemplary public servant whose contribution to the police service would be greatly missed.

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Chief Justice Martha Koome also expressed shock at his death, highlighting his contribution to strengthening security within the Judiciary.

“I have received with profound shock and sadness the news of the passing of SAIG Lazarus Opicho, who, until his demise, served as the Commander of the Security of Government Buildings and VIP Protection Unit,” Koome said.

“On behalf of the Judiciary, and on my own behalf, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the leadership and entire fraternity of the National Police Service, his family, friends and colleagues on this untimely loss,” she added.

Opicho played a key role in the establishment of the Judiciary Police Unit after he was selected to oversee its formation in 2021, becoming its pioneer commandant.

His role placed him at the centre of efforts to strengthen security arrangements within the Judiciary.

His career in the police service spanned several senior assignments. In 2009, he served as a Police Superintendent at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where he was responsible for security and investigations.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya