Kenyan Officer Killed While Confronting Gangs in Haiti

Police Constable Samuel Kitwai of Kenya was killed during a security operation against gangs in Haiti, marking the first fatality in the MSS. The mission aims to restore order in a country plagued by severe gang violence, which has resulted in thousands of deaths and mass displacement. The future of the multinational force’s operations and funding is uncertain amidst escalating violence and geopolitical challenges.

A Kenyan police officer, Police Constable Samuel Kitwai, was killed during a confrontation with gangs while on duty with the Multinational Security Support mission (MSS) in Haiti. At just 26 years old, Kitwai becomes the first casualty of this Kenyan-led mission, which was initiated in June 2022 to restore order in Haiti amid rampant gang violence, especially in Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas.

The violence in Haiti has escalated dramatically, claiming over 5,500 lives in 2024 alone and forcing more than a million residents to flee their homes. General Godfrey Otunge, commander of the multinational force, reported that Kitwai sustained injuries during an operation in the Artibonite region and sadly succumbed to his wounds shortly after being airlifted to the hospital.

Jack Ombaka, spokesperson for the MSS, highlighted Kitwai’s bravery, describing him as a “fallen hero” who was “killed while fighting for the people of Haiti.” Meanwhile, Kenya’s foreign ministry expressed its sorrow over the loss of the officer, emphasizing his commitment to the mission. Ombaka noted that Kitwai was fatally shot during a security operation aimed at combating gang activities in Pont-Sondé.

The MSS has escalated its efforts recently with the deployment of an additional 200 Kenyan officers; however, they are challenged by gangs that are increasingly better armed, often with weapons smuggled from the U.S. There are concerns regarding the future of the multinational force amid funding uncertainties, especially after the Trump administration’s freeze on aid.

Despite these challenges, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio authorized a waiver allowing U.S. funds to support the MSS and Haiti’s police force. The potential transition of the MSS into a UN peacekeeping operation could provide more stable funding, but clarity on U.S. support remains ambiguous. Condolences were expressed by U.S. Ambassador to Kenya, Marc Dillard, acknowledging the bravery of the Kenyan police in maintaining global safety.

The tragic death of Police Constable Samuel Kitwai highlights the dangerous conditions faced by Kenyan officers in Haiti as they confront gangs terrorizing the nation. The ongoing violence has severe humanitarian implications, prompting international responses aimed at restoring stability. As discussions of funding and support for the Multinational Security Support mission continue, the situation in Haiti remains critical, necessitating urgent action for peace and order.

Original Source: www.bbc.com