Kenyan Officer Missing in Haiti Amid Gang Violence Crisis

A Kenyan police officer has gone missing in Haiti following a gang attack during a rescue mission aimed at aiding Haitian police. The incident reflects the dire security situation in Haiti, where gang violence has left many homeless. The Kenyan-led security force, tasked with combating gangs, faces significant challenges, including personnel shortages and financial constraints.

A Kenyan police officer deployed in Haiti has gone missing after a brutal attack by gangs during a rescue mission. The officer and a group of their colleagues were en route to aid Haitian police trapped in a ditch allegedly dug by criminal gangs, as indicated by the U.N.-backed multinational security mission’s announcement. In response to the situation, specialized teams have been organized to locate the missing officer.

Reports from local Haitian media suggest that the missing officer may have been killed, with disturbing footage of an individual in a Kenyan uniform circulated on social media. This incident underscores the escalating gang violence in Haiti, which has left over one million individuals homeless, forcing many into inadequate makeshift shelters after gangs have destroyed their homes.

The Kenyan-led security operation commenced last year, with a mandate to combat the gangs attempting to gain dominance over Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince. Kenya initially pledged to send 1,000 law enforcement officers, with 800 already deployed since June. This follows the tragic death of another Kenyan officer who was murdered by gangs in February, whose burial took place in Kenya last week.

Pressure is mounting on the mission due to equipment shortages as gangs continue to control approximately 85% of Port-au-Prince, expanding their territorial influence. Compounding these challenges, financial support for the mission has faced setbacks following the U.S. government’s suspension of funding, which formed part of President Donald Trump’s broader strategy to curtail foreign aid.

The disappearance of a Kenyan officer in Haiti amidst rising gang violence highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the challenges faced by international security forces. With the gangs controlling significant territories and hampering rescue efforts, there is an urgent need for improved resources and support for the Kenyan-led mission to restore order in Haiti.

Original Source: www.newsday.com