Senior police officer Lazarus Opicho, the Commandant of the Security of Government Buildings (SGB) and VIP Protection Unit, has died, with leaders and colleagues mourning a career officer remembered for his professionalism, courage and commitment to duty.
Bumula Member of Parliament Wanami Wamboka was among those who paid tribute to Opicho, describing him as a dedicated professional and a trusted friend.
In a statement shared on X on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, Wamboka recalled how the senior police officer personally intervened to protect him during a difficult period when his life was reportedly at risk amid impeachment proceedings involving the then Agriculture Cabinet Secretary.
“During a difficult period when my life was in danger amid the impeachment proceedings against the then Agriculture CS, he personally came through and ensured my safety,” Wamboka said.
The MP said Opicho’s actions during that period left a lasting impression, adding that he would remember him for his courage, professionalism and friendship.
“I will forever remember his courage, professionalism and friendship,” he said.
Opicho served in one of the National Police Service’s key security formations, overseeing the SGB and VIP Protection Unit under the Administration Police Service.
The unit is responsible for providing security to designated government buildings and installations as well as close protection and related security services for VIPs.
Opicho’s rise through the police service
Opicho had risen through the ranks of the police service to become a Senior Assistant Inspector General of Police (SAIG), reflecting his progression into the senior leadership of the Administration Police Service.
The Administration Police Service’s 2025 newsletter confirmed that Opicho, who was then an Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) and Commandant of the SGB and VIP Protection Unit, was promoted to the rank of SAIG while retaining his position as commandant.
His career also included service as the Commandant of the Judiciary Police Unit before his move to the SGB and VIP Protection Unit.
National Police Service records identified him as the Judiciary Police Unit Commandant during an official engagement in 2022.
In recent months, Opicho continued to participate in senior Administration Police Service leadership and management activities.
He was among senior APS officers involved in strategic engagements on the Service’s transformation agenda, including discussions on operational efficiency, data-driven decision-making and modernising service delivery.
He was also listed among senior officers present during the launch of a 2026 Senior Management Course for Administration Police officers at the Kenya School of Government’s Lower Kabete Campus.
Wamboka mourns senior security officer
Wamboka described Opicho’s death as an untimely loss to his family, the National Police Service and the wider communities associated with him, including Sirende and Kiminini.
The legislator extended his condolences to Opicho’s family, colleagues and friends, saying the officer’s contribution to public service would be remembered.
“His untimely departure is a great loss to his family, the National Police Service, the people of Sirende, Kiminini and Kenya at large,” Wamboka said.
“My heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues and loved ones. May his soul rest in eternal peace,”he added.
Opicho’s death brings to an end the public service career of a senior officer who had served in several strategic security roles, including the protection of government institutions, VIPs and members of the Judiciary.
As tributes continue to come in, his family, colleagues and associates are expected to remember his years of service and leadership within the National Police Service.
