The Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission to Haiti, together with the Haiti National Police (HNP), has intensified operations in the Caribbean country to subdue the dangerous armed gangs.
In a statement on Sunday, September 1, the Kenyan National Police Service (NPS) said the officers will be conducting clearance operations in Delmas, Bel-Air, Solino, and their environs to weed out gangs and return normalcy.
The operations will be conducted on sea, land, and air by clearing roads and streets to allow the normal flow of people and vehicles.
The operations come after the MMS received additional vehicles and equipment from the United States government.
With the heightened operations, MSS called upon gang members to down their weapons and surrender to the government.
They further called upon the Haitian people, authorities, and stakeholders to continue supporting MSS to re-establish security and improve conditions so that the country can hold free and fair elections.
"MSS remains steadfast and fully committed to its mandate as outlined in UNSC Resolution 2699 by working with the HNP to ensure a safe and secure Haiti," NPS said.Previously, along with their Haitian counterparts, Kenyan officers recaptured Auorite Portuaire Nationale (APN), a key port in the capital, Port-au-Prince.
The achievement came following a fierce gun battle with gang members who had occupied the strategic seaport since March 6, 2024.
Gangs at the port hindered the delivery of essential supplies, worsening the humanitarian crisis in the Caribbean nation.
MSS Mission Commander Godfrey Otunge confirmed the milestone, a first for Kenyan police officers following the deployment of the first group of 200 officers.
