The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched its Multi-Biometric Identification System (MBIS) at the Diplomatic Police Unit (DPU) Headquarters, allowing diplomats and foreign nationals to process Police Clearance Certificates locally.
The new service eliminates the need for eligible applicants working with diplomatic missions and international organisations to travel to the main DCI Headquarters or Huduma Centres for fingerprinting and clearance processing. The rollout aims to simplify applications, reduce delays and improve access to police clearance services.
Diplomats to Access Same-Day Certificates
The new system is expected to reduce the time required to obtain Police Clearance Certificates, commonly known as certificates of good conduct.
Under optimal operating conditions, applicants can receive their certificates on the same day. Previously, processing could take an average of 14 days.
However, issuance timelines may depend on successful biometric capture, verification and completion of the required checks.
DCI Introduces Digital Biometric Capture
The MBIS platform replaces traditional ink-based fingerprinting with digital biometric capture. According to the reported rollout details, the system uses fingerprints, palm prints and facial recognition technology to support identity verification.
The technology is intended to improve the accuracy of identification and strengthen the handling of criminal records. It also reduces reliance on manual paperwork during the application process.
System Expands Criminal Record Capacity
The upgraded infrastructure is also expected to strengthen the DCI’s ability to manage and search criminal records. Reported system specifications indicate that storage capacity has increased from two million to 10 million records. Daily search capacity has also risen from 4,500 to 20,000 searches.
These improvements could help investigators process identification requests more efficiently as demand for biometric services grows.
Nationwide Rollout Continues
The DCI first introduced the MBIS platform at its headquarters in July 2026, with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen presiding over the launch.
The rollout subsequently expanded to additional regional centres, with the latest deployment extending services to the Diplomatic Police Unit.
The broader programme aims to connect 63 centres across Kenya, bringing biometric identification services closer to applicants in different regions.
For diplomats and foreign nationals, the latest expansion offers a more convenient way to complete police clearance applications without travelling to the main DCI offices.
The initiative forms part of the government’s wider effort to modernise police services through digital technology and improved records management.
