Celebrations After Kenyan Police and Haitian Forces Kill Gang Members in Haiti

There were celebrations in Haiti’s Pont Sonde State following the killing of several gang members during an impromptu operation conducted by Kenyan and Haitian Police officers.

On Saturday, December 7, police officers under the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission jointly with the Haitian National Police (HNP) launched an operation to reclaim the Petite-Rivière Police Station which is located in Pont Sonde.

According to MSS Commander Godrey Otunge, the station had been inoperable for over a year after it was ransacked and burned down by the gang members who later turned the station into their hiding zone.

During the operation, a fierce gunfight erupted between the police officers and the gang members. The shootout left many gang members dead and others severely wounded.

While addressing journalists hours after the operation, Otunge commended the residents of Pont Sonde for their support and trust during the mission.

“This collaboration between the population and security forces has proven that unity can overcome the threat of gangs,” Otunge stated.

“We assure the community that these operations and patrols will continue until lasting peace is restored throughout Artibonite,” he added.

He revealed that for the past three months, police officers had placed the region under the radar following the October 3 incident when the Gran Grif gang killed several civilians.

Inspired by this victory, residents called for further police action to completely dismantle the Gran Grif gang, which they claimed had long plagued their peace.

The latest development comes against the backdrop of the recent rumours that some of the police officers under the MSS mission had tendered their resignation over poor working conditions including late pay.

However, the allegations were dismissed the mission commander Otunge who said the officers were fully committed to supporting the Haitian police in conducting operations and restoring stability.

“We urge all stakeholders, including local and international media, to seek clarification directly from the MSS before publishing any reports. Our doors remain open for transparent communication,” Otunge wrote.