Kenyan Security Mission in Haiti Reports Missing Officer Amid Gang Violence
The Kenyan mission in Haiti has reported one officer missing after a gang ambush resulted in violence and the potential death of another officer. The incident occurred when gangs attacked three armored vehicles. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to discuss stabilization efforts in Haiti with Caribbean leaders, highlighting ongoing concerns about gang violence and the challenges facing peacekeeping forces.
The Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support mission reported that one of its police officers in Haiti is missing following a violent ambush by gangs. This incident occurred on Tuesday when gangs attacked three armored vehicles, subsequently setting them ablaze. Visual evidence from gang members displayed a lifeless police officer on the ground, exacerbating concerns over the safety of peacekeeping forces in the region.
If confirmed, this incident marks the second casualty among Kenyan security personnel since their deployment began in June. Earlier this month, Samuel Tompoi Kaetuai, a young father, was killed during an operation against the Gran Grief gang, which is suspected to be involved in the recent attacks.
The Haiti National Police are still gathering details regarding the violent confrontations linked to the Gran Grief gang, particularly in the Petite Rivière de l’Artibonite area, where clashes persisted throughout the day. The violence is part of a broader campaign by a powerful gang coalition that continues to besiege Port-au-Prince.
On the same day, gangs fortified their positions in Clemenceau, planning attacks to expand their territorial control. This pattern of violence is characterized by arson and an alarming rise in kidnappings, with gangs reportedly using hostages to defend against police operations, including drone attacks targeting their strongholds.
The Kenyan-led mission explained that the ambush occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m. when a Haiti National Police vehicle became trapped in a ditch, believed to be set by gangs. When two Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles were dispatched for rescue, one became immobilized, while the other experienced mechanical issues, leading to an ambush by gang members. Consequently, a Kenyan officer went missing, prompting the deployment of specialized teams for a search operation.
The Kenyan mission has faced difficulties combating local gangs, affected by limited funding, personnel shortages, and insufficient equipment. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to engage with Caribbean leaders concerning the situation in Haiti and reaffirm U.S. support for the stabilization efforts led by Kenya.
Mauricio Claver-Carone, Trump’s former envoy for Latin America, acknowledged the complexities of the issue, emphasizing a collaborative approach with Caribbean nations to address the challenges in Haiti effectively.
The ongoing violence in Haiti poses significant challenges to peacekeeping efforts, particularly for the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support mission. With the recent ambush resulting in the death of a police officer and another missing, the situation highlights the dangers faced by international forces. Notably, as they confront gang-related threats and operational complications, support from international partners remains a crucial element in attempts to stabilize Haiti. Continuous dialogue among regional leaders is essential to devise effective strategies for confronting this crisis.
Original Source: www.miamiherald.com
