Who Is Patrick Tito? Meet Kenya’s Acting Deputy Inspector General of Police

Mr. Patrick Tito has officially been appointed as the Acting Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Kenya Police Service following the decision by Eliud Kipkoech Lagat to step aside.

This leadership change comes amid an ongoing investigation into the custodial death of Albert Ojwang, which has raised public outcry and triggered scrutiny of police procedures.

Patrick Tito Kenya Police

Patrick Tito has been appointed Acting Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Kenya Police following Eliud Lagat’s decision to step aside. Lagat made the move on Monday, June 17, 2025, in response to growing scrutiny over the death of Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody on June 7.

In a public statement, Lagat said he stepped aside to allow for transparent and independent investigations. “In the good and conscious thought of my role and responsibilities… and in view of the ongoing investigations on the unfortunate incident of the death of Albert Ojwang, I have today opted to step aside… pending completion of investigations,” he said.

Until the investigations conclude, the duties of the DIG will be handled by Patrick Tito.

Tito’s deep understanding of the DIG office and operational policing has made him a trusted figure in police leadership. As Principal Assistant, he advised the DIG on key issues and helped steer various reforms and initiatives.

His elevation to acting DIG comes at a time of ongoing reforms within the National Police Service. Just recently, over 700 officers across different units were promoted by the National Police Service Commission, part of broader efforts to improve leadership and performance.

Tito now takes over leadership at a crucial time, as public trust and accountability remain in sharp focus following Ojwang’s death in custody. His experience will be tested as the force awaits the outcome of the investigations.

Why Was Patrick Tito Appointed?

Mr. Tito steps into the role after serving as the Principal Assistant to the now-sidelined DIG, Mr. Lagat. Before this, he held the position of Nyanza Regional Police Commander, a role in which he was noted for his firm leadership and operational discipline.

His appointment is temporary, but widely seen as a stabilizing move during a time of crisis within the Kenya Police Service.

Background and Career Highlights

Patrick Tito is a seasoned career police officer with decades of experience in the service. His extensive background includes:

• Principal Assistant (PA) to several former DIGs and Police Commissioners including:

  • Maj Gen (Rtd) Hussein Ali

  • Mathew Iteere

  • David Kimaiyo

  • Joseph Boinnet

• Diplomatic Police Unit: Served with Kenya’s diplomatic protection services.

• Railways Police Unit: Played a key role in infrastructure protection.

• Regional Command: Led the Nyanza region police for almost a year before being recalled to Nairobi.

He became PA to the DIG in March 2025, following the retirement of Miriam Muli in February.

Why He’s Considered the Right Fit

Insiders within the Kenya Police describe Tito as level-headed, experienced, and well-versed in operational strategy and crisis response. As PA, he has been involved in nearly every critical decision made by the DIG’s office, offering insights and managing day-to-day operations.

His reputation for professionalism and prior experience in the same office under multiple DIGs make him a familiar and trusted figure.

The Circumstances Around His Appointment

Tito’s appointment comes after Mr. Eliud Kipkoech Lagat stepped aside on June 10, 2025, amid investigations into the June 7 death of Albert Ojwang while in police custody. In a public statement, Lagat expressed remorse and a commitment to cooperate with investigators: “In view of the ongoing investigations… I have opted to step aside from the office of the Deputy Inspector General… The functions of the office will henceforth be performed by my deputy.”

Lagat made this decision after meetings with President William Ruto and top police directors at Vigilance House.

Who Is Patrick Tito?

Patrick Tito is a seasoned police officer. Before this role, he was working as the Principal Assistant to Eliud Lagat at Vigilance House in Nairobi. He took over the assistant role in March 2025, after the retirement of Miriam Muli.

Before joining the DIG’s office, Tito served as the Nyanza Regional Police Commander. He also worked with the Railway Police Unit, Diplomatic Police, and even served under past DIGs like Maj Gen (Rtd) Hussein Ali, Mathew Iteere, David Kimaiyo, and Joseph Boinnet.

What’s Next?

While investigations continue, Patrick Tito will oversee the operations of the Kenya Police Service in his acting capacity. His focus will likely be on restoring public trust, supporting accountability processes, and maintaining internal order.

With his rich institutional knowledge and long-standing service, many believe Tito will provide the steady leadership needed during this delicate transition.