Kenyan police officers deployed to Haiti under the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) have made significant strides in restoring stability to the Caribbean nation, the National Police Service (NPS) reported on Tuesday.
In a statement, the NPS highlighted that the officers, working alongside the Haiti National Police and local communities, have successfully reclaimed areas previously controlled by gangs. They have also secured critical infrastructure, including airports, and reopened crucial roads, facilitating the return of thousands of displaced Haitians.
“The MSS has managed to pacify threats to public safety and security, taken over critical infrastructure including the airport from gang control, and opened up critical roads, enabling the return of thousands of Haitians who were earlier displaced,” stated the NPS.
The deployment of Kenyan officers comes amidst escalating violence in Haiti, which has been destabilized since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse three years ago. The country has seen an increase in gang activities, particularly in the capital, Port-au-Prince, where criminal groups have seized control of key areas.
The NPS also confirmed that the Kenyan officers continue to receive their regular salaries, and that their MSS deployment allowances have been fully processed. This assurance comes amid concerns regarding the welfare of officers deployed in international missions.
The NPS commended the MSS Force Commander, Godfrey Otunge, and his team for their dedication and patriotism. The statement acknowledged the challenging environment in which the officers are operating and praised their unwavering commitment to duty.
