Kenyan police deployed to serve in the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) in Haiti have made major progress in restoring stability in the Carribean nation, according to the National Police Service (NPS).
In a statement, NPS said that the Kenyan officers in collaboration with Haiti National Police and local communities, have successfully reclaimed areas previously held by gangs, secured critical infrastructure, and reopened critical roads.
“MSS has managed to pacify threats to public safety and security, taken over critical infrastructure including the airport, from gang control, opened up critical roads that have enabled the return of thousands of Haitians earlier displaced,” said the NPS.
The NPS confirmed that the Kenyan officers continue to receive their regular salaries and that the processing of their MSS deployment allowances has been finalized.
The NPS further commended the MSS Force Commander Godfrey Otunge and the entire team for their patriotism and dedication to duty.
Haiti has seen an escalation of violence following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse three years ago, with organized crime groups seizing control in Port-au-Prince.
At least 400 Kenyan police officers have been deployed to the MSS Force to help restore order.
However, this positive update follows recent concerns raised about salary delays.
Reports have surfaced indicating that relatives of the Kenyan officers stationed in Haiti have complained about delays in receiving their deployment allowances, which are supposed to be at least Sh100,000 above their regular salaries.
The MSS has acknowledged these concerns and stated that the disbursement process is being finalized, with payments expected to be reflected in the officers’ bank accounts within the week.
The agency has also pledged to implement better mechanisms for timely salary payments in the future.
