Kenya’s National Police Service (NPS) has confirmed the tragic loss of a Kenyan police officer deployed in Haiti as part of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS). The officer, who succumbed to gunshot wounds at Aspen Level 2 Hospital in the Caribbean nation, was among a team conducting patrols in Seguin, Pont-Sonde, Port-au-Prince.
The officer’s name has not yet been disclosed, but his family has been officially notified. The NPS, through its spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, expressed deep sympathies to the bereaved family and assured them of unwavering support.
“The Service conveys its deepest sympathies to family and friends of the fallen Police Officer and assures them of our unwavering support during this trying period,” the statement read.
The Kenyan contingent, led by Force Commander Godfrey Otunge, has been engaged in continuous security operations in Artibonite, neutralizing criminal gangs responsible for terrorizing residents. Following successful operations in Artibonite, residents of Seguin called for similar interventions, prompting the Kenyan officers to respond. It was during this mission that the officer paid the ultimate price. However, his fellow officers swiftly pursued and neutralized the gang member responsible for his death.
Otunge praised the bravery of the fallen officer and commended the swift response of the El Salvador Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC) team, who transported the officer to the hospital in record time. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he could not be saved.
This tragic incident marks the first casualty among the Kenyan police officers deployed in Haiti since their arrival on June 25, 2024. Kenya has committed 800 officers so far, with plans to increase the deployment to 1,000 as part of the UN-approved international force of 2,500 officers drawn from various nations.
Despite the ongoing security operations, concerns remain about the long-term impact of the mission. While the multinational force has been successful in dislodging gangs from key strongholds, there are fears that the absence of sustained police or military presence could allow the criminal groups to regroup and reclaim lost territory.
The Kenyan officers in Haiti continue to demonstrate resilience and commitment to their mandate, even in the face of significant risks. Their efforts to restore peace and stability in the violence-stricken country remain a testament to Kenya’s dedication to global security missions.
As the mission continues, the sacrifice of the fallen officer serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by peacekeeping forces in volatile regions. The Kenyan government and the international community will need to strategize on maintaining long-term stability in Haiti to prevent further loss of life and ensure the mission’s success.
