The first group of Kenyan police officers deployed to Haiti for an 18-month peacekeeping mission returned home on Tuesday, December 9, marking the end of their tenure under the Multi-National Security Support Mission, which later transitioned to the Gang Suppression Force (GSF).
The officers were deployed in June 2024 to support stability operations, restore freedom of movement, and assist in training the Haitian Police.
National Security Advisor Ambassador Monica Juma led the reception ceremony at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), where she led the nation in observing a moment of silence in honour of the officers who did not survive the mission.
During the reception, the officers were recognised for key achievements in Haiti, including reopening critical road networks, enhancing local security, and contributing to the training and capacity building of the Haitian Police.
Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, Eliud Lagat, praised the officers for their integrity and discipline, pointing out that the skills gained abroad would strengthen operational capacity within Kenya’s police services.
Also, the Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service (APS), Gilbert Masengeli, expressed gratitude to President William Ruto and mission partners for their support and highlighted the officers’ contribution to Kenya’s international reputation.
The contingent was accompanied back home by Deputy National Security Advisor and former Inspector General Joseph Boinnet, as well as Kenya’s Consul-General in Port-au-Prince, Noor Gabow.
The developments came just hours after the fifth batch of Kenyan police officers on Monday, December 8, arrived in Port-au-Prince, Haiti's capital, for security reinforcement under the GSF.
The contingent of 230 specialised police officers touched down at Toussaint Louverture International Airport and were received by the President of Haiti's Transitional Presidential Council, Laurent Saint-Cyr, alongside other top members of the Haitian authorities.
The troops are expected to work in close coordination with the Haitian authorities, including the Haitian National Police and the country's military, in eliminating the gangs.
The deployment comes as violence escalates in both Port-au-Prince and surrounding regions, particularly Artibonite, where gangs recently killed at least 20 people in Pont-Sondé, according to Haitian Times.
Armed groups continue to carry out kidnappings, arson, and road blockades, contributing to the displacement of more than 1.4 million people across Haiti.
