Inspector General Douglas Kanja Mourns Fallen Officer Samuel Kaetuai

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja confirmed that Samuel Kaetuai’s body will be repatriated to Kenya after he was killed in Haiti. Kanja visited Kaetuai’s family, offering condolences and government support, marking Kaetuai as a hero. This loss is significant, as he was the first officer to die in Haiti since the mission began.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has announced that preparations are complete for the repatriation of the body of Samuel Kaetuai, a police officer who was tragically shot dead during a security operation in Haiti last week. The remains are expected to return to Kenya for burial later this week, underscoring the commitment of the Kenyan government to honor its fallen officers.

During a visit to the Kaetuai family in Naserian village, Kajiado East, Inspector General Kanja described the deceased officer as a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of global peace. He expressed his condolences and assured the family of governmental support during this difficult time, pledging that the state would bear all costs associated with the burial.

“We have lost a young man who had sacrificed himself for the sake of global peace. He died while helping restore peace in Haiti and protecting the people’s rights,” stated Kanja. Accompanying him were notable figures, including Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lang’at, Deputy Inspector General of Administration Police Gilbert Masengeli, State House Controller Dr. Katoo Ole Metito, and Nominated Senator Peris Tobiko.

Kaetuai, aged 28, was tragically gunned down on February 23, 2025, by what are suspected to be gang members while he was on patrol in the Artibonite region near Port-au-Prince. He is the first officer reported to have died in Haiti since the inception of the peace mission, reflecting the risks involved in such operations.

Having joined the police service in 2021, Kaetuai was among a contingent of 600 Kenyan officers deployed to Haiti as part of the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission. His father, Kaetuai Salaash, lamented the loss of his son, calling it a tremendous tragedy that has deeply affected the whole family. Reflecting on his son’s character, Salaash described him as a caring and responsible individual who provided for his family.

Inspector General Kanja’s visit and remarks reinforce the government’s commitment to supporting the families of fallen officers. The sacrifice of individuals like Samuel Kaetuai is recognized as vital in the fight for peace, and efforts continue to ensure they are honored respectfully both in life and death.

In summary, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja confirmed that the body of Samuel Kaetuai, a Kenyan officer killed in Haiti, will return home for burial. The Inspector General praised Kaetuai’s bravery and guaranteed governmental support to the grieving family during their time of loss. The community mourns a dedicated officer who made the ultimate sacrifice for global peace.

Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke