Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has assured the public that the search for missing Kenyan police officer Benedict Kabiru in Haiti remains active. Kabiru disappeared on March 25 after he and his team were ambushed by a gang while on a rescue mission as part of the Multinational Security Support Mission.
Speaking during Eid celebrations in Eastleigh, Kanja confirmed that authorities are working diligently to locate Kabiru, though he refrained from disclosing whether the officer is alive or dead. The Kenyan government has pledged to provide updates as soon as more information becomes available.
Back home in Thamanda, Kikuyu, Kabiru’s family remains deeply distressed. A prayer service was held on Sunday, with relatives and friends seeking divine intervention for his safe return. Tears flowed freely as the family struggled with uncertainty, compounded by the limited communication from authorities.
Philip Kamau, Kabiru’s brother, described the emotional toll on their mother: “Our mother is struggling. Sometimes she has no energy, she doesn’t eat, she doesn’t sleep. It is mentally exhausting for us. Why is the government not telling us the truth?”
The local community has also expressed frustration over the lack of clarity regarding Kabiru’s fate. Peter Kibiru, Chairman of Community Policing, noted that residents are growing anxious: “Since news of Kabiru’s disappearance broke, the community has had so many questions. They keep asking for updates, but we have no answers to give them.”
Conflicting reports have added to the uncertainty. Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council stated last week that a security officer was killed during the ambush in which Kabiru went missing. However, Kenyan authorities have yet to confirm whether this refers to Kabiru or another officer.
Despite the distressing situation, Kabiru’s family and friends hold onto hope, praying that he will be found safe. Meanwhile, Kenyan forces in Haiti continue their efforts to restore stability in the troubled Caribbean nation, nine months after their deployment.
