Kenyan Police Collaborate with Haitian Forces to Combat Gang Violence

Kenya police, in partnership with Haitian authorities, conducted successful raids in Port-au-Prince, targeting gang strongholds. The operation resulted in numerous arrests and the recovery of various weapons amid ongoing efforts to combat gang violence following a deadly attack at Pont Sonde. International collaboration has been emphasized as Haiti continues to face significant instability and humanitarian crises.

The Kenyan police, in collaboration with their Haitian counterparts, have successfully conducted a series of coordinated raids targeting criminal gang strongholds in the greater Port-au-Prince area. These operations, part of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), resulted in the arrest of numerous suspected gang members and the recovery of an array of weapons. The operation commenced on October 21, 2024, in several locations, including Artibonite and broader Western departments, in direct response to previous violent incidents, notably a recent attack that claimed over 115 lives in the Pont Sonde area. According to MSS Force Commander Godfrey Otunge, the primary goal of these security initiatives is to dismantle criminal networks and restore peace to areas currently under gang control. Despite attempts by gangs to fortify their hideouts with trenches and barricades, the dedicated MSS and Haitian National Police (HNP) teams navigated these obstacles, culminating in the arrest of dozens of gang members, while the notorious Gran Griff gang leader, Elan Luckson, narrowly evaded capture. Otunge reiterated the commitment to sustained operations to neutralize gang influences. On-site operations culminated at a site known as “Pat Chwal” in Saint-Marc, where officers recovered various weapons, including a Mossberg 12 GA rifle, and other items. To further enhance strategic efforts, a Forward Operating Base (FOB) has been established in the region, facilitating increased operational capacity. Community cooperation was emphasized, with gratitude expressed to civilians who assisted in neutralizing obstructions. The involvement of Kenyan police alongside troops from the Bahamas, Belize, and Jamaica marks a significant international effort to combat escalating criminality in Haiti, where current estimates indicate that more than 700,000 individuals have been displaced and over five million face hunger, as reported by the United Nations. The recent extension of the MSS mandate by the U.N. Security Council underscores the gravity of the situation, although proposals to transition to a U.N. peacekeeping mission faced opposition from key nations. Further deployments and increased operational capabilities are anticipated to address the crisis more effectively.

The ongoing violence in Haiti has been fueled by the presence of powerful criminal gangs that have destabilized local communities and exacerbated humanitarian crises. Following a tragic incident at Pont Sonde that resulted in significant loss of life, the MSS was mobilized to restore order. The cooperation of international forces, including those from Kenya and the Caribbean, illustrates a collective response to a deepening crisis that has led to mass displacement and famine affecting a large portion of the population. Despite prior efforts, the complexity of the situation has necessitated enhanced strategies for security operations.

In conclusion, the joint efforts of Kenyan and Haitian police forces represent a crucial step towards combating gang violence in Haiti. The successful raids have yielded significant arrests and the recovery of weapons, illustrating a tactical response to escalating criminal activities. The ongoing commitment to these operations, coupled with international support, is essential for restoring stability in a nation grappling with severe humanitarian challenges. Continuous engagement with local communities and strengthening of law enforcement capabilities remain pivotal in the fight against gang violence in Haiti.

Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke