Kenyan Police Officer Missing Following Gang Ambush in Haiti

A Kenyan police officer deployed in Haiti remains missing after a gang ambush during a rescue operation. The incident underscores rising security threats to the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support mission, following a series of attacks in the region.

A Kenyan police officer, part of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti, is currently unaccounted for following a gang ambush. This incident was confirmed by MSS spokesperson, Jack Ombaka, who reported that the ambush occurred on March 26 in the Artibonite Department, where an operation was underway to assist an HNP armored vehicle.

The attack transpired when a Haitian National Police armored vehicle, patrolling the Carrefour Paye-Savien Main Supply Route, became stuck in a ditch, presumably dug by gangs. Two MSS Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles were dispatched for assistance, but one vehicle became stuck and the other experienced mechanical problems.

As the rescue teams attempted to resolve the situation, they were ambushed by suspected gang members. During the ensuing firefight, it was determined that one MSS Kenyan contingent officer is missing. Specialized teams have been mobilized for a search operation to locate him.

Authorities suspect that several gang members were injured during the exchange, with some fatalities reported, although details on casualties remain sparse. Ongoing efforts focus on securing the area and finding the missing officer, amid escalating security threats faced by the Kenyan-led MSS mission in Haiti.

This incident follows a series of violent encounters, including the shooting of a senior Kenyan police officer on March 18 in the same vicinity, and the death of Constable Samuel Tompoi Kaetuai on February 23 while performing his duties.

The missing Kenyan police officer’s case highlights the perilous environment faced by MSS personnel in Haiti, as gang violence escalates. The ongoing search for the officer underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures. As previous incidents have shown, the situation requires continuous monitoring, and proactive engagement from international missions to ensure the safety of personnel deployed in such volatile regions.

Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke