Written By Lisa Murimi
On Tuesday, Kenyan police officers, working alongside the Haitian Police Force, killed several gang members in a significant ambush operation in Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital.
The joint mission targeted the districts of Bel-Air and Solino, both known for gang activity.
According to reports, over 15 armored vehicles were seen transporting the officers to the operational areas in the early hours of the morning.
The mission, which began by cordoning off the targeted districts, was described by the head of the peacekeepers, Godfrey Otunge, as the largest operation against gangs since the Kenyan forces arrived in Haiti three months ago.
During the operation, locals were evacuated to avoid harm, leaving behind gang members who attempted to resist.
The officers reportedly shot and killed an undisclosed number of gang members, while others fled through the narrow streets.
Otunge reaffirmed the peacekeepers’ commitment to restoring order in Haiti, warning that operations would continue until the gangs surrender.
Three Haitian National Police officers sustained minor injuries during the mission and were treated.
The successful operation has been praised by local residents, who are hopeful that continued efforts will eradicate gang violence in the area.
The operation followed the recent delivery of 24 armored vehicles and other equipment from the U.S. government to support the joint peacekeeping efforts.
