Kenyan Police Officer Injured in Haiti Security Operation

A Kenyan police officer was shot and seriously injured during a security operation in Haiti on March 18, 2025. This incident follows the death of another officer less than a month prior. The Kenyan police are part of a larger mission aimed at combating gang violence in Haiti, with support from other nations.

On March 18, 2025, a Kenyan police officer sustained serious injuries during a security operation in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, as part of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS). The officer was shot by criminal gangs while operating in Kenscoff, located in the Belot area, prompting immediate medical intervention.

Mission spokesman Jack Ombaka confirmed that the officer was swiftly evacuated to ASPEN Level 2 Hospital where he remains stable and is receiving appropriate medical care. While Ombaka did not disclose the officer’s identity, he emphasized ongoing efforts to pursue the gang responsible for the shooting.

This incident marks the second shooting of a Kenyan officer in the Haiti mission. Previously, Constable Samuel Tompoi Kaetuai was fatally shot on February 23 in the Segur-Savien region, making him the first Kenyan officer to be killed since the mission began in June 2024.

Kenyan police forces consist of approximately 800 officers deployed under the United Nations-backed mission to assist Haitian authorities in combating rampant gang violence. In addition to Kenya, Jamaica, Guatemala, and El Salvador have also contributed troops to bolster Haiti’s national police against criminal gangs.

In light of the recent tragedy, Inspector General Douglas Kanja and senior police officers extended their condolences to the family and friends of the late Constable Kaetuai during a visit to Naserian Village, Kajiado East Sub-County, Kajiado County.

The situation regarding Kenyan officers engaged in the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti has become increasingly precarious, highlighted by the recent shooting of one officer and the tragic death of another. Despite these challenges, efforts to combat gang violence continue, with multiple countries participating in support of Haiti’s national police. The Kenyan authorities remain committed, reflecting a determined response to threats faced by their personnel overseas.

Original Source: www.tv47.digital