The death of Kenyan police officer Constable Samuel Kaetuai, 28, has sent shockwaves across Kenya and beyond. Kaetuai, who was serving under the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM) in Haiti, was killed in a clash with criminal gangs in the Artibonite region, north of the capital, Port-au-Prince. His family in Naserian, Kajiado West, received the heartbreaking news on Monday morning, February 24.
Kaetuai’s father, Kaetuai Lesaru Salaash, expressed deep sorrow, revealing that his son had big dreams of constructing a house for his parents. “He has left behind two young children and a widow. He planned to build a home for us, and you can see the materials here,” the grieving father stated.
The officer was shot in the head while engaging gangs in the volatile region. He was airlifted to Aspen Level 2 Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. In response, his fellow Kenyan officers pursued and neutralized the gang member responsible for his death. This marks the first fatality of a Kenyan officer in the mission, which has so far been deemed successful in restoring order in Haiti.
The United States embassy in Nairobi extended its condolences to Kaetuai’s family, acknowledging the officer’s sacrifice in the fight for peace. “The United States is grateful for the courageous Kenyan police who are serving in harm’s way to keep our world safer,” the embassy stated.
MSS Force Commander Godfrey Otunge commended the fallen officer’s bravery and reaffirmed the mission’s commitment to stabilizing Haiti. “Our officers have been conducting continuous security operations in Artibonite, successfully neutralizing several gangs. This tragic loss only strengthens our resolve,” Otunge stated.
The National Police Service Spokesperson Michael Muchiri confirmed that the officer had been on patrol when he was attacked. “The officer sustained gunshot wounds and was rushed to the hospital, but unfortunately succumbed. His family has been notified,” he said.
Despite the loss, the Kenyan police-led MSS mission continues to gain ground in Haiti. Recently, the U.S. bolstered the mission with a donation of 600 assorted firearms, ammunition, and vehicles, including pickups, trucks, excavators, and armored loaders. This aid came shortly after former President Donald Trump suspended a $13.3 million contribution to the fund.
Additionally, a Ukrainian cargo plane recently delivered three helicopters designated for medical evacuations. The ongoing training of the Haiti National Police (HNP) by Kenyan officers, coupled with these reinforcements, is expected to further weaken the gangs that have terrorized parts of Haiti’s capital for years.
Kaetuai’s death underscores the dangers that Kenyan officers face as they work to bring stability to Haiti. Their determination remains unshaken, with officers vowing to pursue criminal elements until Haiti is secure. His sacrifice will not be forgotten, as Kenya and the world honor a brave officer who died in the line of duty.
