Inspector General of the National Police Service, Douglas Kanja, led senior police officers in mourning constable Samuel Tompoi Kaetuai, a Kenyan officer killed in Haiti. Tompoi, 28, was fatally shot in the head during a clash with criminal gangs in Port-au-Prince.
Kanja, accompanied by Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service Eliud Lagat, Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service Gilbert Masengeli, and other senior officials, visited Tompoi’s family in Naserian Village, Kajiado East, to offer condolences. He eulogized Tompoi as a hero who had dedicated his life to global peacekeeping efforts.
The officer was an expert in bomb disposal and sharpshooting, having undergone extensive training before deployment. His death marks a significant loss to the National Police Service. Kanja assured that the Kenyan government remains committed to the welfare of officers deployed in Haiti, maintaining constant communication with the team to ensure their safety and support.
Government officials, including Senator Peris Tobiko, State House Controller Dr. Katoo Ole Metito, and National Police Service Commission (NPSC) Commissioner John Ole Moyaki, attended a memorial service organized by local churches to comfort the bereaved family. Kanja confirmed that Tompoi’s body is expected to arrive in Kenya between March 5 and 6, with all logistical arrangements in place for repatriation.
The Multinational Security Support Mission confirmed Tompoi’s death on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday. Kenya’s Foreign Ministry Principal Secretary, Korir Sing’Oei, expressed his sorrow, acknowledging the sacrifice made by the fallen officer.
Haiti continues to battle escalating gang violence, with the United Nations reporting over 5,600 deaths in 2024 alone. The Haitian National Police recently launched an operation against gang leader Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier’s stronghold in Delmas, resulting in multiple gang casualties. The role of Kenyan officers in these operations remains unclear.
Haiti’s transitional presidential council has struggled to restore order and organize long-delayed elections, as gang control has led to widespread displacement, food insecurity, and the collapse of essential services.
Tompoi’s death underscores the challenges faced by international peacekeeping forces in volatile regions. The Kenyan government has reaffirmed its support for the mission while ensuring that the officers’ sacrifices are honored.
