Kenya is sending its first police officers to Haiti to tackle rampant gang violence, with the mission being led by an international force. The Caribbean nation has been plagued by gangs controlling most of the capital Port-au-Prince, engaging in killings, kidnappings, and sexual violence.
Despite delays caused by court challenges and security concerns in Haiti, the officers are set to depart, with their weapons and personal belongings already prepared for the journey. The initial deployment will include several hundred officers, with the rest of the 1,000-strong force joining them later.
The officers expect to make a stopover in a third country before reaching Haiti, according to sources close to the mission. The mission, with contributions from countries like Jamaica, the Bahamas, and Bangladesh, is primarily funded by the United States.
The departure of the Kenyan officers marks a significant step in addressing the violence in Haiti, with international support crucial in restoring peace and stability in the region.