Establishment Of The Unit

In early 1980s, the then Administration Police Force used to mobilize personnel from the affected regions, to undertake quick response to critical security situations or missions. The Squads were disbanded immediately normalcy was restored. These Squads included the “Anti-Shifta” and Rapid Anti-Banditry Unit (RABU) which were both based at Garissa to counter insurgency in the Northern Frontier Region. In the late 90s, a Special Squad to counter civil disturbance in Nairobi City was formed. It later transformed to RDU in the year 2000 as a permanent Unit, under the command of Commanding Officer (CO). Currently, the Unit is currently headed by a Commandant (CDT).

The purpose of establishing RDU was to have a well-trained and well equipped force that would be deployed at short notice. It is designed to be highly trained, agile, mobile, responsive and well-equipped to operate in high threat environments in both urban and forward areas.

Presently, RDU consists of deployable field companies on security operations, SWAT Team and the Headquarter Staff. The Unit can be deployed in any part of the Country for special tactical operations and complex interior conflicts.