A group of 400 Kenyan police officers who were sent to Haiti to help fight dangerous gangs are expected to come back home in June. These officers were part of the first team that was deployed to Haiti on June 25, 2024.
According to Mr. Jack Ombaka, the spokesperson for the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission, these officers signed a one-year contract. This means their time in Haiti is almost over, and they will soon return to Kenya.
Besides the first group, Kenya has also sent more police officers to Haiti. Another batch of 600 officers went in October 2024, and a third group of 217 officers arrived in January 2025. There are plans to send more officers, but no date has been announced yet.
The MSS Mission is led by Mr. Godfrey Otunge and was set up with the approval of the United Nations Security Council to help restore peace in Haiti. However, the mission has faced serious challenges. Sadly, two Kenyan officers have been affected.
Mr. Samuel Tompoi was killed during an attack by gangs and has already been buried in Kenya. Another officer, Benedict Kabiru, went missing after an ambush. The Kenyan government has not officially confirmed his death but continues searching for him.
It is believed that Kabiru may be held by a dangerous gang called Gran Grif. This gang, led by a man known as Monel “Micanord” Felix, has been involved in deadly attacks, including killing over 110 people in December.
Despite the challenges, Kenya’s efforts in Haiti have been important in trying to bring peace. As the first team prepares to return, the country honors their courage and sacrifices.
By Nation