Kenyan Police Officer Killed in Haiti Amid Ongoing Gang Violence
Kenyan Police Constable Samuel Kitwai was killed during a confrontation with gangs in Haiti, marking the first casualty in the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support mission. His death highlights the challenges faced as gangs continue to exert control amid a worsening security situation. The U.S. has provided some support, but the future of the MSS remains uncertain.
A tragic incident has occurred in Haiti resulting in the death of Police Constable Samuel Kitwai, a 26-year-old Kenyan officer engaged in international security efforts. His death marks the first casualty in the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, which was launched in June of the previous year amid escalating gang violence that has overtaken Port-au-Prince and extended into rural regions.
In 2024 alone, gang-related violence in Haiti has resulted in over 5,500 fatalities and displaced more than one million residents. The confrontation that led to Constable Kitwai’s death took place in Artibonite, a northern region of the capital, where he was severely injured during an operation in Pont-Sondé.
Gen Godfrey Otunge, the commander of the MSS, confirmed that Constable Kitwai was airlifted to a medical facility but succumbed shortly thereafter. His family has been informed of the loss, with MSS spokesman Jack Ombaka declaring the officer a “fallen hero” who died in the line of duty for the Haitian people.
The Kenyan foreign ministry expressed its heartbreak at the loss, highlighting the sacrifices made by officers in the mission. Ombaka reiterated the MSS’s commitment to eradicate the gangs responsible for widespread violence, affirming, “We will pursue these gangs to the last man standing.”
Despite recent reinforcements, including an additional 200 Kenyan officers, the MSS faces formidable challenges against well-armed gangs. These illicit groups frequently obtain advanced weapons trafficked from the United States, complicating efforts to restore order in the region.
Recent developments have raised questions about the future of the multinational force, particularly following a freeze on U.S. foreign aid programs. However, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio later approved a waiver to release funds designed for both the MSS and Haiti’s National Police, although the potential transition of the MSS into a UN peacekeeping operation remains uncertain.
United States Ambassador Marc Dillard extended condolences to the family of Constable Kitwai, recognizing the bravery of Kenyan police officers engaged in perilous missions to enhance global safety.
Constable Samuel Kitwai’s death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by international peacekeeping forces in Haiti. As the situation evolves, the MSS continues to confront significant challenges from armed gangs, necessitating ongoing support and collaboration among international allies. The commitment of the MSS to restore order highlights the complexities of maintaining stability in regions plagued by violence, underscoring the importance of global cooperation in these efforts.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
