“I am now going to fully embark on a decisive operation, the second phase, and I am saying that the days are numbered for the gangs. Either you surrender to the authorities, that is, the Haitian government, or we are coming for you,” he affirmed.
Gun Battle Follows Joint Operation Targeting Barbecue in Delmas
The recent gun battle between Kenyan police and gang members in Haiti comes on the heels of a joint operation on Friday, November 22. The coordinated mission, involving the Haiti National Police and Kenyan forces, targeted the notorious gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, alias “Barbecue,” in Delmas.
Although Barbecue narrowly evaded capture, the operation was not without success. Officers eliminated two gang members and seized several pieces of military equipment, including firearms, striking a blow to the gang’s operations.
This mission underscores the increasing efforts by the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM), led by Kenya, to dismantle violent gangs and restore stability in Haiti. The recovery of weapons and neutralization of gang members mark a significant step forward in the fight against escalating gang violence in the region.
Gang Violence Escalates in Haiti as Kenyan Police Strive for Stability
Gang violence continues to grip Haiti, with key battlegrounds concentrated in Port-au-Prince, the Toussaint-Louverture International Airport, and other strategic areas. Since the arrival of 400 Kenyan police officers on June 25, 2024, the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM) has been working to restore peace.
The gangs have displaced over half a million people and left nearly five million facing food insecurity. However, the mission faces challenges, including personnel shortages, lack of equipment, and funding constraints, threatening its progress.
Kenyan Police Mission in Haiti Faces Setback as Officers Resign Over Delayed Payments
On Friday, December 6, the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM) in Haiti suffered a significant blow as nearly 20 police officers, including a unit commander, resigned due to delayed payments and ongoing hardships.
According to Reuters, the resignations began in October after verbal attempts to leave were blocked. The officers were instructed to submit written resignation letters, which they did, citing dissatisfaction with the mission’s conditions.