Three officers in the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM) suffered injuries after an early morning attack by Haitian gangs, it has been revealed.
In a statement released on Thursday, August 7, MSSM disclosed that the attack occurred in Kenscoff at 2 am, after the forces, largely composed of Kenyan police officers, had responded to distress calls from area residents.
The Mission detailed that the attack was carried out to disrupt a planned Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) transition that was to take place today.
“In anticipation of today’s scheduled CPT transition, armed gangs had plotted to disrupt national stability and render the country ungovernable. However, these efforts were decisively thwarted through coordinated, around-the-clock patrols and a strong security presence,” the MSSM stated.
After responding to a distress call, armoured vehicles carrying MSS forces became stuck in trenches dug by gangs, triggering the attack.
According to MSSM spokesperson Jackson Ombaka, the gangs ambushed the officers using Molotov cocktails, improvised incendiary weapons made by attaching burning cloth to liquor bottles, and hurling them to ignite fires and cause damage.
Despite sustaining injuries, the officers were treated at the Aspen Level 2 Hospital and later discharged.
However, Ombaka noted that the officers could not salvage the vehicles, which were burnt and damaged beyond repair.
Acknowledging the officers’ bravery, Ombaka revealed that the attackers sustained serious injuries despite managing to flee.
“MSS officers courageously held their ground, inflicting significant damage on the assailants, many of whom fled with serious injuries,” read the statement.
Ombaka affirmed that the forces would continue targeted operations until all gang leaders are either apprehended or voluntarily surrender to face justice.
He also expressed the Mission’s gratitude to the Haitian people and the Haitian National Police (PNH) for their continued support and cooperation.
The incident came barely two days after heavy gunfire was reported near the US embassy amid escalating gun violence. On Monday evening, August 5, the United States issued a security alert, urging its citizens to avoid Port-au-Prince, Tabarre, and the area around the embassy.
