Kenyan police officers stationed outside the US Embassy in Tabarre, Haiti, have stirred debate after their presence was linked to a meeting rather than embassy security duties.
Commander Godfrey Otunge clarified that the officers were engaged in discussions and equipment reception at the embassy on Friday. This explanation follows online complaints that they were neglecting street patrols amidst rising gang violence.
Here is a link: https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2024-07-06-haiti-officials-why-kenya-police-were-outside-us-embassy/
Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome emphasized the officers' role in strategic mapping and joint patrols with Haitian authorities in gang-controlled areas like Port-au-Prince.
President William Ruto recently launched Kenya's deployment of 1,000 troops to support Haiti's security under a UN mandate, aimed at combating rampant gang activity.
The mission, authorized by the UN Security Council, involves Kenyan units from the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU), Anti Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), General Service Unit (GSU), and Border Patrol Unit (BPU). These units, equipped and trained for combat situations, have also undergone language training to enhance their effectiveness.
The deployment marks Kenya's leadership in a multinational force including teams from countries like Chile, Jamaica, and Nigeria. Their mission includes guarding critical locations such as the main port, airport, highways, hospital, and presidential residence.
While the Haitian government has welcomed international assistance, the deployment faces challenges from well-armed local gangs that have destabilized the capital, forcing many residents to flee their homes.
The controversy surrounding the Kenyan police's assignment in Haiti underscores broader concerns over international peacekeeping roles and the allocation of national resources amidst domestic security challenges.
As the deployment continues, attention remains on whether this international mission will effectively curb violence in Haiti or face mounting scrutiny back home over its impact on local policing and security priorities.