The Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) in Haiti has made a strong appeal to gangs in the Caribbean nation, urging them to surrender and lay down their arms as the mission begins operations in the neighborhoods of Port-au-Prince.
On Sunday, Kenyan police units, in collaboration with their Haitian counterparts, initiated operations in gang-controlled areas, including Delmas, Bel-Air, Solino, and nearby neighborhoods.
The UN-backed mission is set to conduct pacification efforts through land, sea, and air operations. These efforts aim to clear roads and streets, thereby restoring normal movement for both people and vehicles.
In an update on Sunday, the MSS reiterated its call for gang members to disarm and surrender to the government.
“The MSS is urging gang members to put down their weapons and surrender to the government,” the mission stated.
The MSS also revealed that it had received additional vehicles and equipment from the U.S. Government last week, which will bolster its joint operations with Haitian forces.
The mission called on Haitians, authorities, and stakeholders to continue supporting efforts to restore security and create the necessary conditions for free and fair elections.
Reaffirming its commitment to restoring order, the MSS emphasized its unwavering dedication to its mandate, as outlined in UNSC Resolution 2699, to work alongside the Haitian National Police (HNP) in ensuring a safe and secure Haiti.
