As part of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), the officers were tasked with combating violent gangs wreaking havoc in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and surrounding areas.
The mission, established in October 2023, is a collaboration with various countries, including Jamaica, Belize, and El Salvador, and is under the guidance of the United Nations.
“We moved swiftly at dawn,” said one of the officers, recounting the day’s operation.
“We targeted known strongholds, ready for any resistance. Our goal was clear—to dismantle these criminal networks and ensure the safety of the people here.”
The operation began early, with Kenyan police working hand-in-hand with Haitian National Police. With armored vehicles and tactical gear, they raided gang dens and seized illegal firearms.
However, the gangs fought back fiercely. The police were met with armed resistance, and a series of firefights broke out.
“We encountered heavy gunfire, but we didn’t retreat. We pushed forward,” said another Kenyan officer involved in the raid.
In the heat of battle, several gang members were neutralized, and key leaders were arrested.
“It wasn’t just about firepower. We had intelligence, and that helped us stay one step ahead,” explained the officer.
The operation resulted in the seizure of firearms and ammunition, crippling the gangs' ability to carry out further attacks.
Since the MSS’s deployment, Kenya has sent over 500 officers to Haiti, with the largest contingent coming from the Kenyan police.
The mission has made significant strides in reducing gang activity in certain regions.
“We’ve seen a real shift in the areas we’ve targeted. People are starting to feel safe again,” said a local community leader.
Despite these successes, challenges remain. The gangs continue to adapt, and Haiti’s complex socio-political issues make it difficult to root out the violence.
“It’s going to take time, but we are here for the long haul,” remarked the officer.
As the operation continues, there is a growing sense of hope among the people of Haiti.
“It’s not perfect, but things are getting better,” said a local resident.
“We can finally see a future where we don’t have to live in fear.”
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