Kenyan Police Engage Barbecue’s Gang in Intense Gun Battle in Haiti

On Thursday, December 7, Kenyan police leading the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM) in Haiti were involved in a fierce gunfight with gang members, intensifying efforts to curb gang violence in the troubled nation.

Footage obtained by trendynews.co.ke reveals the Kenyan forces exchanging heavy gunfire with the gang led by Jimmy Cherizier, also known as “Barbecue,” across multiple locations. The clashes occurred near Barbecue’s stronghold, highlighting the ongoing tension in Haiti, which has faced escalating instability since 2021.

The videos depict the high-stakes confrontation, giving a glimpse of the harsh realities faced by the MSSM as they strive to restore order in a country plagued by criminal violence and lawlessness.

In response to the encounter, MSSM commander Godfrey Otunge delivered a stern message to the gangs, warning that the mission would intensify in the coming weeks and months. “We are shifting to a higher gear,” Otunge stated, signaling a robust approach to restoring stability in Haiti.

The operation underscores the critical role Kenyan police are playing in the multinational effort to combat gang violence and rebuild trust in Haiti’s governance and security structure

Who is Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier, Haiti's most prominent gang leader?
Haiti barbeques gang leader

“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.

Haiti gang leader warns of civil war unless PM Ariel Henry steps down

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.

Under assault by gangs in Haiti, a Kenyan-led mission fights back | WJTV

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.

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