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Researchers Network HARN Pays Tribute to Retired Assistant Deputy IG of Police, Mohamed Sheikh Hambaarsade

Nairobi, Friday – Siyad Jimale, the Executive Director of the Horizon Analysts and Researchers Network (HARN), has extended tribute to the now retired Assistant Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Rapid Deployment Unit, Mohamed Sheikh Abdi. 

Mr. Jimale lauded Mohamed alias Xambarsadhe as an unsung hero who served with distinction, contributing significantly to the nation’s security.

On Tuesday community members organized colorful farewell party held at a hotel in Nairobi to signify the sunset of his distinguished career in the National Police Service which he served over a span of four decades.

In a tweet posted on Friday, Jimale expressed his admiration for Sheikh’s distinguished services to the nation, particularly in banditry and terror-prone areas. 

He emphasized that Sheikh’s contributions deserved the highest level of appreciation and accolades.


Mr. Jimale highlighted Sheikh’s pivotal role in the fight against insurgents, especially during the height of terror attacks in Northern Kenya. 

He underlined the invaluable nature of Mohamed’s presence and contributions, noting that they were immeasurable, priceless, and conspicuous.

The retired Assistant Deputy Inspector-General of Police played a crucial role in maintaining security and combating terrorism, especially in regions vulnerable to such threats. 

Born in Arabia, Mandera County, the former commander in the Anti-Shifta Police Unit who spent the 1980s and 1990s fighting bandits, Mohammed was called to join the RDU in 2004 at the height of inter-tribal clashes in the region.

Mohamed Sheikh Alias “Xambarsadhe” served as the Assistant Inspector General(AIG) of the Rapid Deployment Unit(RDU). Photo/ GT


Following a spate of Al-Shabaab-related attacks in the country his unit was among several others deployed in the North Eastern region.

His unit responded to several distress calls.
In April 2015 alone, the unit successfully prevented five Al-Shabaab terror attempts on the citizens of Wajir.

“His dedication and efforts during times of crisis, when grenades and bullets posed a constant danger, have left an indelible mark on Kenya’s security landscape,” he added. 

The Director said his moniker “Xambarsade” rings a bell in the minds of the people of NEP counties. 

“It rings a bell of a patriotic officer who was committed in saving lives and the properties of kenyans as well as flushing out Al-shabab terror group and its sympathizers out of Kenya’s territory.”

Mr. Mohamed Abdi alias Xambarsadhe promoted as Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of the Rapid Deployment Unit(RDU). Photo/ GT 

As Mohamed Sheikh embarks on the next chapter of his journey following his retirement, the tribute from the Horizon Analysts and Researchers Network (HARN) serves as a poignant reminder of the profound and lasting influence he has had on Kenya’s security landscape. 

His legacy as a distinguished figure who served the nation with honor and distinction remains a source of inspiration to many.

Horizon Analysts and Researchers Network (HARN) is an independent non-profit policy research organisation.

It aims to bring together the knowledge, experience and drive of researchers, analysts and experts to better inform policy and to increase the understanding of realities in Northern Kenya.