Kenyan Police Officer Killed in Haiti While Battling Violent Gangs

A Kenyan police officer assisting Haitian authorities in controlling gang violence was killed during an operation in Port-Sonde, Haiti. The officer, wounded in an encounter with the Gran Grif gang, died after being airlifted for medical attention. This incident further complicates efforts to combat the increasing violence in Haiti, necessitating ongoing international support.

A Kenyan police officer, part of a mission to assist in combating violent gangs in Haiti, was fatally shot during an operation in the Artibonite region. This incident occurred after officers received a distress call from residents of Pont-Sonde. Following the gunfire, the officer was evacuated but succumbed to his injuries, according to Godfrey Otunge, the commander of the Kenyan forces in the area.

In a follow-up operation, officers pursued the gangsters responsible for the attack. Mission representative Jack Ombaka praised the contributions of hospital staff and Salvadoran forces aiding the efforts against the gangs. He stated, “This is the price our courageous officer paid — he was killed while fighting for the people of Haiti,” and honored the fallen officer as a brave hero.

The killing marks a significant setback in ongoing attempts to curb gang violence in Haiti, an issue exacerbated since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021. Kenya has deployed hundreds of officers to support Haitian law enforcement, with additional reinforcements sent in February. Currently, over 800 Kenyan police officers are collaborating with Haiti’s National Police, supported by a multilateral force that includes personnel from Jamaica, Guatemala, and El Salvador.

The tragic death of a Kenyan police officer in Haiti underscores the perils faced by international forces attempting to stabilize the country amid rampant gang violence. This incident not only highlights the dangers of the mission but also the ongoing challenges that Haiti faces in restoring security and peace. The continued commitment of global partners remains critical in addressing these profound issues.

Original Source: apnews.com