A Kenyan police officer in Haiti, along with a colleague, is recovering from serious injuries sustained during violent clashes with Haitian gangs over the past week.
The officer was shot in the head after a bullet pierced his helmet, while his colleague was injured in the ear when a bullet struck an armored vehicle.
Three officers, speaking anonymously, confirmed the details to Reuters, explaining that the injuries occurred during routine patrols in Port-au-Prince.
The incident was also confirmed by Jack Ombaka, a spokesperson for the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission, who remarked, “As in any mission, casualties are sometimes unavoidable.”
Both injured officers were evacuated to the Dominican Republic for specialized treatment.
This development adds to a rising toll of casualties as gang-related violence in Haiti intensifies.
The MSS mission, which has faced increasing attacks, recorded its first fatality in February when a Kenyan officer was killed by a gunshot to the head.
Another Kenyan officer, reportedly killed on March 24, has been the subject of confusion due to conflicting reports from the Kenyan and Haitian governments.
Inspector General Douglas Kanja confirmed on March 30 that efforts are ongoing to locate the missing officer.
Officers have also voiced concerns about the quality of their equipment.
Twenty armored vehicles have been grounded since the weekend after officers reported that the vehicles failed to stop bullets, marking the second such incident.
In response, Ombaka assured that the MSS is receiving enhanced logistical support from international partners, with guarantees that all equipment meets global standards.
However, senior MSS officials revealed plans to travel to Washington this week to discuss concerns regarding protective gear with US officials.
The United States, which has been the primary contributor of funding and equipment for the mission, continues to provide support despite rumors of a potential funding cut.
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