Kenya Police Collaborate with Haitian Forces to Combat Gang Violence

Kenyan police, in collaboration with Haitian officers, conducted successful raids to liberate areas from gang control in Port-au-Prince. This operation, part of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), resulted in numerous arrests and the recovery of weapons following a violent incident at Pont Sonde. The ongoing efforts aim to capture notorious gang leaders and restore safety in Haiti amid a growing humanitarian crisis.

The recent operation carried out by Kenyan police alongside Haitian officers has resulted in the liberation of multiple areas from the control of gangs in Haiti. This joint effort, conducted under the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), concentrated on neighborhoods within Port-au-Prince and the Artibonite region, leading to the seizure of various illegal weapons. The October 21st raid saw a significant number of suspects arrested as the security forces continue their mission to restore peace to gang-occupied zones. MSS Force Commander Godfrey Otunge emphasized the determination to maintain these operations to neutralize gang influence in the region. The need for increased security was underscored by a recent violent incident at Pont Sonde, which claimed the lives of over 115 individuals, necessitating urgent police intervention. Otunge noted, “Despite the gang’s frantic efforts to dig trenches, ditches and put barricades on the roads to impede access to their hideouts, the joint MSS and HNP resolute teams went for them and smocked them out of their hideouts where Luckson (the notorious gang leader) escaped by a whisker.” The operation specifically targeted Elan Luckson, the head of the Gran Griff gang, responsible for the brutal attack. The police faced challenges created by the gang, who had constructed various obstacles to thwart access to their strongholds. Officers were able to fill in these trenches during the operation, ultimately recovering weapons and materials, including firearms and bulletproof vests identified as belonging to the Haiti National Police. The MSS, with support from international forces from nations such as the Bahamas, Belize, and Jamaica, is part of a broader effort to combat the rampant gang violence in Haiti, which has displaced over 700,000 residents and left approximately five million individuals facing severe hunger. In light of the escalating crisis, the United Nations Security Council has recently extended the MSS’s mandate to another year, while discussions regarding the potential evolution of this mission into a more comprehensive U.N. peacekeeping operation continue. Last week, another operation resulted in the death of 20 gang members in a slum area, demonstrating the ongoing efforts to reclaim safety in the streets of Haiti. With plans to bolster troop deployment further, the international mission appears committed to stabilizing the region and restoring order.

Haiti has been facing an unprecedented crisis characterized by high levels of gang violence, which has led to widespread displacement and humanitarian needs among its population. The current situation has prompted international support, notably through the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), in collaboration with local law enforcement, aimed at restoring peace and stability. Operations conducted have focused on dismantling gang strongholds and addressing the violence that has claimed thousands of lives. The situation has been compounded by a lack of food security and economic instability, prompting international entities to respond more robustly.

In conclusion, the joint operations carried out by Kenyan and Haitian police forces represent a strategic approach to combatting gang violence and restoring order in Haiti. The potency of these operations is underscored by the significant arrests made and the recovery of illegal weapons. Although challenges remain, the commitment of both domestic and international entities signals a concerted effort towards stabilizing the region and addressing the underlying humanitarian crises.

Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke