A Kenyan police officer deployed to Haiti as part of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission is missing after an ambush by armed gangs in the Pont-Sonde area. The incident occurred on Tuesday, March 25, when a Haitian National Police (HNP) armored vehicle became immobilized in a ditch, suspected to have been deliberately excavated by gangs to trap security forces.

In response to the stranded vehicle, two MSS Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles were dispatched for assistance. During the recovery operation, one MRAP also got stuck, and the other experienced mechanical issues. Seizing the opportunity, gang members launched a coordinated attack on the officers. Amid the ensuing confrontation, one Kenyan officer was reported missing. Specialized teams have since been deployed to conduct search operations and ascertain the officer’s whereabouts.

This incident highlights the escalating challenges faced by international forces in Haiti, where violent gangs have expanded their control, now dominating over 85% of the capital, Port-au-Prince. The surge in gang-related violence has led to the displacement of more than a million residents and has severely undermined law and order in the region.

The Kenyan contingent, comprising approximately 800 officers, has been instrumental in efforts to stabilize Haiti. However, they have encountered significant resistance from entrenched gang networks. Notably, this is not the first casualty for the Kenyan forces; in February, Officer Samuel Tompoi Kaetuai was fatally shot during an operation in the same area.

The MSS mission, supported by personnel from countries including Jamaica, Guatemala, and El Salvador, continues to grapple with the complex security landscape in Haiti.