Kenyan police arrested two gang leaders in Haiti during a Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission. Kenya, leading the mission with 600 officers, intensified operations in the violence-hit country. The arrested leaders, from the Chen Mechan and Pierre Six gangs, are being interrogated. Police also seized weapons during the raids.
MSS commander Godfrey Otunge confirmed increased joint operations with the Haiti National Police. In the last three weeks, the teams have cleared gang-controlled roads. They removed barricades blocking key areas.
The operations targeted areas like Port-au-Prince, Delmas, and Croix-Des-Bouquets. Kenyan forces demolished a double wall built by the Mawazo gang on National Road 88. This has allowed the free flow of traffic, improving movement in previously deserted neighborhoods.
Normalcy is returning to many streets, including Delmas and several key avenues. Businesses that had shut down are reopening. Residents who fled are coming back.
The arrests follow claims by gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, also known as “Barbecue,” who accused Kenya police of using excessive force. He said they attacked his base with bullets and teargas.
Jamaica has sent 20 soldiers and four police officers to assist. Other countries, including Italy and Spain, have pledged to send forces. The MSS mission is set to end next month unless extended by the UN Security Council. Talks are ongoing to extend Kenya’s leadership for another year. The mission costs around Sh77 billion annually, with the US and Canada contributing most of the $68 million raised so far.
