Two elite Haitian SWAT officers serving alongside the Multinational Security Mission (MSS) lost their lives on Tuesday evening following a tragic explosion caused by a ''kamikaze'' drone.
The incident occurred at the SWAT base in the Kenscoff region and left two other officers injured.
According to the Haitian National Police (PNH), the drone was reportedly being carried by civilians when it exploded. Authorities are treating the incident as an accident, though investigations are ongoing.
In a statement, the U.S. Embassy in Haiti expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the officers. “These brave officers made invaluable contributions to combating gangs and improving security conditions in Haiti. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” the statement read.
The US also reiterated its continued support for Haiti’s security forces. “We remain steadfast in our support to the HNP and its SWAT teams in the fight against terrorist organizations that continue to destabilize Haiti.”
Chargé d’affaires Eric Wooster and the US Embassy extended heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the fallen officers, noting their courage and dedication to duty.
US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau also confirmed speaking directly to Haitian Prime Minister Fils-Aimé to offer condolences. “They died trying to protect their country from criminal gangs,” she said, reaffirming that the US and its allies stand with Haiti’s efforts to restore law and order.
Kenyan Officers Death
Earlier this year, a Kenyan police officer serving in the MSS mission in the Caribbean nation died on Sunday, February 23, after sustaining injuries during an operation.
According to a report by the MSS shared the same day, the officer, drawn from the Artibonite department, was injured during an operation in SÉGUR - SAVIEN.
He was ultimately airlifted to Aspen Hospital, a level-2 facility, where he eventually succumbed to his injuries.
In March this year, another Kenyan police officer who is part of the mission was also reportedly killed during a confrontation with gang members.
The Kenyan officer, whose identity remains undisclosed to date, was shot dead by gang members on Tuesday, March 25, during an operation in the Lower Artibonite region, which is located 92 kilometres north of Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince.
On April 20, three Haitian soldiers succumbed to injuries sustained during an ambush by gangs while on a joint security patrol with local and Kenyan officers under the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS).
