In a significant development, the Kenyan police officers stationed in Haiti have made commendable progress in curbing gang violence and securing critical infrastructure in the Caribbean nation. On Saturday, the National Police Service (NPS) of Kenya announced the successful recovery of several key infrastructures previously dominated by gangs.
According to the NPS, the Kenyan contingent, which is part of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission, managed to recapture the Auorite Portuaire Nationale (APN) port from gang control. This operation marks a major milestone in their efforts to restore peace and security in Haiti.
“The MSS team, comprising National Police Service Officers and the Haiti Police, has continued to register success as they combat gang activities and restore security in Haiti,” read part of the statement by NPS.
In addition to reclaiming the port, the officers made significant strides in clearing road blockades that had been set up along roads leading to the gang-ridden town of Ganthier. This achievement is expected to facilitate the free movement of goods and people, contributing to the overall stabilization of the region.
This progress comes just a week after the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, visited the peacekeepers and held talks with them on July 22, 2024. Her visit underscored the international support and recognition of the efforts being made by the Kenyan police in Haiti.
Furthermore, on July 26, Edgard Leblanc Fils, the Head of Haiti’s Presidential Transition Council, visited MSS Force Commander Godfrey Otunge and later addressed the peacekeepers. His visit highlighted the collaborative efforts between the Haitian government and the MSS team in restoring law and order.
“National Police Service officers in Haiti reiterate their commitment to continue working closely with Haitian police and the people of Haiti, in discharging their mandate to help in the restoration of law and order in Haiti,” the NPS statement continued.
The announcement from the NPS comes shortly after a significant development within Haiti. Jimmy Cherizier, alias Barbecue, a prominent gang leader, signed a peace treaty with fellow gang leaders to end the violence that has plagued the nation. Following the signing of the peace agreement, a section of Haitian citizens took to the streets of Port-au-Prince to celebrate the newfound peace.
During a closed-door meeting, the gang leaders called on Haiti’s Prime Minister Garry Conille to consider convening a peace meeting with them, aiming to halt the ongoing anarchy and restore stability to the country.
The coordinated efforts of the Kenyan police, the MSS mission, and the Haitian authorities reflect a promising step towards peace and order in Haiti. The progress achieved so far provides hope for a lasting resolution to the violence that has disrupted the lives of many Haitians.
