A detective attached to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has attained a major academic milestone, underscoring the growing emphasis on advanced training within Kenya’s security agencies.
Detective Dr. Jairus Mutinda Kilatya was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Security Studies by Kenyatta University during a graduation ceremony held on 19 December 2025.
In a statement shared on X, the DCI confirmed that Dr. Kilatya is currently stationed at the DCI office in Kyumbi.
The agency said his academic achievement places him among a small but increasing number of officers within the Directorate who have completed doctoral studies while in active service.
The DCI noted that Dr. Kilatya previously earned a Master’s degree in Security Management from Kenyatta University, where he is also an alumnus.
According to the Directorate, his doctoral studies were undertaken alongside frontline investigative duties, a balance that required careful time management and sustained commitment.
Beyond his doctoral qualification, the DCI said Dr. Kilatya is pursuing a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree at Mount Kenya University.
The additional legal training is intended to strengthen his understanding of the justice system and support investigative work that often intersects with complex legal processes.
The Directorate also highlighted Dr. Kilatya’s contribution to academic and policy discourse through published peer-reviewed journal articles on contemporary security issues.
The DCI said the publications address both current and emerging threats, adding value to professional practice and national security discussions.
Kenya’s security sector has, in recent years, placed greater focus on professional development, particularly as law enforcement agencies confront evolving challenges such as transnational crime, cyber threats, and terrorism.
Institutions such as the National Police Service have encouraged officers to pursue higher education as part of broader capacity-building efforts.
In its statement, the DCI congratulated Dr. Kilatya and described his achievement as an example of how academic advancement can complement public service.
The agency said his progress demonstrates that officers can pursue advanced education without stepping away from operational responsibilities.
The Directorate added that Dr. Kilatya’s academic journey serves as a reference point for officers seeking to enhance their skills while remaining in active duty, reinforcing the role of continuous learning within Kenya’s law enforcement institutions.