Kenyan Police Officer Killed in Action While Serving in Haiti

Constable Samuel Kitwai, a 26-year-old Kenyan police officer serving in Haiti, was killed while confronting gang members, marking the first casualty of the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission. The force was established to assist in restoring order amid severe gang violence, which has resulted in thousands of deaths and mass displacement. Challenges concerning funding and operational support for the MSS remain critical.

A Kenyan police officer, Constable Samuel Kitwai, tragically lost his life while on duty in Haiti, marking the first fatality of the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS). The 26-year-old officer was engaged with gang members during a patrol when he was shot in the town of Pont-Sondé. Despite being airlifted to a hospital, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.

The MSS was established in June 2022 to assist Haiti in restoring order amidst the rampant violence perpetuated by gangs that control significant portions of the capital, Port-au-Prince. Reports indicate that gang-related violence claimed over 5,500 lives in 2024 alone and forced more than a million residents to flee their homes. The commander of the MSS, General Godfrey Otunge, confirmed the incident occurred in the Artibonite region, north of the capital.

In statements made to the press, Jack Ombaka, the MSS spokesman, referred to Constable Kitwai as a “fallen hero” who died in service to the Haitian people. The Kenyan Foreign Ministry expressed its sorrow, stating they are “heartbroken by the loss” of the brave officer. Ombaka further noted that the MSS is determined to persistently combat gang activities until peace is restored.

Kenya’s National Police Service reiterated that the MSS is working diligently alongside Haiti’s police to reestablish stability within the nation. Recently, the multinational force received an augmentation of 200 Kenyan officers. However, challenges persist as they face an overwhelmed and heavily armed opposition.

The future of the MSS became uncertain after the Trump administration halted foreign aid programs, although later, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio authorized financial waivers for assistance directed towards the MSS and the Haitian National Police. While efforts are underway to convert the MSS into a UN peacekeeping mission for assured funding, clarity on U.S. support remains elusive.

Marc Dillard, the U.S. Ambassador to Kenya, extended condolences to the family of Constable Kitwai, expressing gratitude for the contributions of Kenyan police working in perilous conditions to enhance global safety. The MSS continues to face the daunting task of restoring order in a country beleaguered by gang violence.

The death of Constable Samuel Kitwai underscores the perilous environment faced by the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti. With escalating gang violence resulting in significant casualties and displacement, the MSS remains committed to restoring stability, despite ongoing challenges and uncertainties regarding funding and support. The condolences expressed by U.S. officials highlight the international recognition of the sacrifices made by these peacekeeping forces.

Original Source: www.bbc.com