Police officers return from high-risk Haiti deployment to hero’s welcome

CELESTINE LOMOLIJAH-KNA

Kenya has accorded a heroic welcome to National Police Service officers who returned home after completing a high-risk international peace support mission in Haiti under the Multinational Security Support (MSS) framework.

The officers, led by Mission Commander Godfrey Otunge, were received by senior government officials, diplomats, and family members in a ceremony marked by prayers, tributes, and recognition of their service in one of the world’s most volatile security environments.

Speaking during the reception, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen lauded the officers for upholding Kenya’s reputation as a dependable partner in global peacekeeping efforts.

“You have demonstrated beyond doubt that Kenyan police officers can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in the world,” said Murkomen.

“You carried out your mandate with courage, discipline, and integrity, and in doing so, elevated Kenya’s standing on the global stage.”

The mission, commissioned on June 24, 2024, saw Kenya deploy police officers to Haiti to support efforts to restore order, combat gang violence, and stabilize key national institutions.

Over the course of approximately 22 months, the contingent worked alongside international partners to reopen critical supply routes, secure humanitarian corridors, and support the Haitian National Police.

Mission Commander Otunge described the deployment as both challenging and transformative, noting that despite logistical constraints and security threats, the team delivered significant gains.

“I can proudly say today that we left Haiti much better than we found it,” Otunge stated.

“Our troops managed to open roads for the movement of people and goods, improved security conditions, and helped sustain government operations,” he said.

He added that the officers operated in extremely complex conditions, facing heavily armed criminal gangs while striving to rebuild public confidence in law enforcement institutions.

The commander also paid tribute to three Kenyan officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, describing them as heroes whose sacrifice strengthened the resolve of the contingent.

“Their heroic sacrifice pushed us to do more and make them proud. As a nation, we honour them and remember their service,” he said.

Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service, Gilbert Masengeli, praised the returning officers for their resilience and professionalism, emphasizing that the mission demanded more than technical skills.