The National Police Service has acquired a new modern helicopter that will be used to improve the fight against crime in the country.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery said the move is part of the wider plan by the government to modernize and enhance police mobility.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, Mr Nkaissery said the helicopter will be used mainly during emergencies especially by the General Service Unit’s (GSU) Recce Squad.
The AW139 helicopter which was manufactured by an Italian firm Agusta Westland is a 15-seater which can be used for search and rescue missions, maritime patrol and law enforcement among other uses.
The aircraft is fitted with special features such as night vision, a full medical evacuation kit, security cameras and a rotational Trakkabeam searchlight that allows for day and night patrols.
“The government will continue to modernize our national police service in terms of the air mobility and we have received one of the best helicopters in the market today. Our officers can now conduct aerial patrols, search and rescue operations and also support the forces on the ground,” said Mr Nkaissery.
The cabinet secretary also noted that the airwing has four helicopters as three of the police choppers that had been grounded have been repaired and are expected to enable the police to effectively encounter security challenges across all parts of the country.