DCI Deputy Director John Onyango flagged off the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit’s Emergency Response Team on Tuesday for the 14th Annual Warrior Competition in Jordan from October 5-9, 2025.
The nine-member team will join 38 elite units from 23 countries in one of the world’s most demanding special forces competitions.
Onyango praised the squad for its outstanding record, describing the opportunity as both a challenge and a recognition of Kenya’s growing footprint in international policing excellence.
“I am immensely proud of the team’s accomplishments and optimistic about their victory. Focus squarely on bagging the top prize, and remember that teamwork and discipline are invaluable,” he said at the flag-off ceremony.
The DCI’s Emergency Response Team cemented its reputation earlier this year with a victory at the East African Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization (EAPPCO) SWAT Challenge in Rwanda in January 2025.
That success opened the door to its selection as one of only two African teams participating in Jordan, alongside Rwanda.
“The team has entrenched its foothold at the international event following a splendid triumph at the EAPPCO SWAT Challenge held in Rwanda,” DCI confirmed in its statement.
Their participation in Jordan is seen as a milestone in showcasing Kenya’s tactical capacity and operational readiness on a global stage.
The Warrior Competition is renowned for pushing elite forces to their limits through a series of advanced tactical scenarios and mission-based tasks designed to test both individual capabilities and team coordination under pressure.
According to the DCI, the 2025 edition will bring together 38 teams competing across physically and mentally gruelling events aimed at sharpening their readiness for real-world counter-terrorism and security challenges.
The competition spans five days and will demand a high degree of agility, endurance, and strategic execution from participants.
During the flag-off, Onyango reminded the officers that discipline and cooperation would be their greatest assets.
“I encourage you to focus squarely on the mission, uphold teamwork, and display the discipline that has always defined our success,” he said.
The ceremony was also attended by the Officer Commanding the ATPU Nairobi Region, Nicholas Kimathi, and the ERT Commander, Chief Inspector Alvince Osura. Both leaders expressed confidence that the squad was prepared to compete at the highest level.
Chief Inspector Osura reiterated that the team’s resolve and commitment would drive them through the challenge, while Mr. Kimathi emphasised the importance of representing Kenya with honour.
By participating in the Warrior Competition, Kenya positions itself alongside some of the most respected security agencies in the world.
The event not only tests combat-readiness but also promotes knowledge-sharing among global security institutions.
The DCI highlighted that the ERT’s inclusion is testament to the strides Kenya has made in building tactical expertise within its anti-terrorism ranks.