Kenyan Officer Killed in Haiti as Security Crisis Deepens During Rubio’s Visit

A Kenyan police officer was killed in Haiti amid escalating gang violence as U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits the Caribbean to address Haiti’s security crisis. The officer’s death highlights the deteriorating conditions in the country, where over 80% of Port-au-Prince is under gang control, and violence has triggered record displacement and food insecurity.

A Kenyan police officer, part of the international force combating gangs in Haiti, was killed during a gang ambush. This incident coincided with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s Caribbean tour, which prioritizes Haiti’s ongoing security crisis. The officer, identified as Bénédict Kabiru, was reported missing after gangs attacked his team’s mine-resistant vehicles in the Artibonite region’s Pont-Sondé. The Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), led by Kenya, confirmed his death, remarking on his ultimate sacrifice for a greater future for Haiti.

The attack occurred while officers attempted to recover an armored vehicle that had become immobilized. The MSS indicated that the vehicles were ambushed while the officers faced mechanical issues during the retrieval efforts. Videos circulating online allegedly display the officer’s body; however, CNN has not verified their authenticity. Kabiru’s death represents the latest loss for Kenyan officers since the MSS began operations in June.

In this context, the U.S. remains a significant supporter of MSS’s efforts. Rubio’s tour will include discussions with the president of Haiti’s Presidential Transitional Council, Fritz Jean, aimed at fostering regional cooperation to address the nation’s challenges. With over 80% of Port-au-Prince under gang control, violent activities have surged into surrounding rural areas, particularly the critical agricultural region of Artibonite.

The situation in Haiti has deteriorated greatly, as reports indicate that a massacre by the Gran Grif gang occurred in the same region where Officer Kabiru was killed, resulting in the deaths of at least 70 individuals. UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric highlighted the record displacement levels tied to violence in Port-au-Prince, with nearly 23,000 people displaced within one week in March. The humanitarian crisis has left nearly 5.5 million people hungry, marking one of the most severe food insecurity situations globally.

In summary, the death of Kenyan officer Bénédict Kabiru underscores the escalating security crisis in Haiti, particularly amid intensified gang violence. This tragedy coincides with international diplomatic efforts to bolster support for Haiti as it navigates significant challenges related to gang control and humanitarian needs. As discussions continue, the urgent situation in Haiti remains a global concern requiring coordinated action.

Original Source: www.news8000.com