Kenyan Police Officer Injured During Security Mission in Haiti

A Kenyan police officer was shot and seriously injured on March 18, 2025, during a security operation in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. This incident follows the death of Constable Samuel Tompoi Kaetuai, marking a troubling trend in the Multinational Security Support Mission. Kenyan authorities, alongside other nations, are actively working to combat gang violence in the region.

On March 18, 2025, a Kenyan police officer sustained serious injuries during a security operation in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, as part of the Multinational Security Support Mission. The officer was shot by criminal gangs in the Kenscoff area of Belot. Fortunately, the officer was quickly evacuated to ASPEN Level 2 Hospital, where he is reported to be in stable condition, according to mission spokesman Jack Ombaka.

This incident marks the second shooting involving a Kenyan police officer since the mission commenced deployment in June 2024. Just weeks prior, on February 23, Constable Samuel Tompoi Kaetuai tragically lost his life when he was fatally shot by gangs in the Segur-Savien region. An autopsy revealed that he died from a single gunshot wound to the head, making him the first Kenyan officer to be killed during this mission.

Kenya has committed approximately 800 police officers to the United Nations-backed mission in Haiti, which aims to assist in combating rampant gang violence. In addition to Kenyan forces, other nations, including Jamaica, Guatemala, and El Salvador, have also deployed troops to support Haiti’s national police in their fight against criminal activities. In light of these events, Inspector General of the National Police Service Douglas Kanja visited the family of Constable Kaetuai to extend condolences and support during their time of mourning.

In summary, the situation remains precarious for Kenyan police officers deployed in Haiti, with the recent shooting serving as a stark reminder of the dangers they face. Following the tragic death of Constable Samuel Tompoi Kaetuai, this latest incident underscores the ongoing challenges associated with gang violence in the region. The international community continues to reinforce support for Haiti’s national police through various deployments, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts to restore stability.

Original Source: www.tv47.digital