The family of a Kenyan police officer who disappeared while on duty in Haiti expressed deep distress and frustration with the Kenyan authorities for the lack of clear information regarding his fate. Benedict Kuria and his colleagues were ambushed in March by suspected gang members, and while Haitian media reported his death, Kenya’s police service insists the search is ongoing.
Kuria’s wife, Miriam Watima, has tried numerous times to get information from the government, but their efforts have been met with silence. Her comments, along with those of Kuria’s mother, Jacinta Kabiru, reflected a sense of urgency and desperation for answers. The family has even taken legal action, filing a court petition that lists high-ranking government officials as respondents, to press for the truth.
Kuria’s disappearance has reignited concerns about Kenya’s engagement in a US- and UN-backed mission to address gang violence in Haiti. Despite a strong Kenyan participation, the mission has struggled with funding, equipment, and personnel issues, and has yet to make significant progress in curbing the criminal activities that have displaced over a million people.
The situation has put a spotlight on Kenya’s role in international peacekeeping efforts, particularly under President William Ruto, who has sought to reinforce Kenya’s standing as a reliable global partner. Kuria’s colleagues and family members are now calling for transparent communication and accountability from the government as they push for answers.
The stakes are high for Kuria’s family, who are seeking closure and clarity on their relative’s status. As the situation stands, they remain in a state of limbo, waiting for any news that might bring them the much-needed resolution. The government’s response to their inquiries will be crucial in determining the next steps for the family and potentially for the country’s involvement in international missions.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jul/06/kenya-benedict-kabiru-kuria-police-officer-missing-haiti
