The National Police Service (NPS) has refuted claims circulating online regarding the alleged deaths of Kenyan officers deployed to Haiti for a U.N. backed peacekeeping mission.
Reports surfaced over the weekend suggesting that seven Kenyan officers had been killed amidst escalating pressures from armed gangs in the Caribbean nation.
An image widely shared depicted Kenyan police patrolling the streets of Port-au-Prince, accompanied by text claiming the officers had perished.
The text further criticized President William Ruto, stating, “7 Kenya police reported dead in Haiti aki [President William Ruto] God will never forgive you.”
However, on Monday morning, the NPS categorically dismissed the image as fake and unsubstantiated.
The police service did not provide additional details regarding the ongoing mission or the current status of the Kenyan troops deployed in Haiti.
The deployment of Kenyan officers to Haiti commenced with the arrival of the initial contingent of approximately 400 police personnel on June 25.
The deployment was preceded by a ceremonial send-off the day before in Nairobi, presided over by President William Ruto, who described the mission as a significant demonstration of solidarity.
The mission in Haiti involves not only Kenyan officers but also anticipates the arrival of additional police contingents from Kenya and other nations.
Despite the challenges posed by armed gangs and the complex security situation in Haiti, the NPS remains committed to providing accurate information and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of its deployed personnel.
The clarification by the NPS underscores the importance of verifying information before dissemination, particularly in sensitive matters concerning international deployments and security operations.
As the situation in Haiti continues to evolve, the NPS is poised to provide updates and necessary support to its officers on the ground.
The deployment of Kenyan police officers to Haiti is part of broader international efforts to stabilize the region and support local authorities in maintaining peace and security amidst ongoing challenges.
The NPS remains vigilant and proactive in addressing any misinformation that may undermine public confidence or impact the morale of deployed personnel.
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