Kenyan-led multinational forces in Haiti have regained control of a key area previously held by gangs, marking another step in efforts to restore order in the troubled Caribbean nation.
In a statement on Monday, August 25, 2025, Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) spokesman Jack Ombaka confirmed that specialised units, working alongside the Haitian National Police (PNH), carried out a night raid and seized the Télcos Station, which had been under the control of gangs commanded by a figure known as “Izo2.”
“In the early hours of Monday, 25 August 2025, between 1:00 am and 4:00 am, specialized units of the MSS and the PNH launched a coordinated night operation that successfully recaptured the Télcos Station,” Ombaka said.
MSS and PNH Recapture Télcos in Overnight Targeted Operation
Heavy losses for gangs
According to the MSS, the gangs suffered significant losses during the sweep, with forces going door to door to neutralise resistance.
Several gang members were arrested, while a cache of weapons and other materials was recovered and handed over to the PNH.
Security teams also began dismantling gang barricades that had blocked key roads into Télcos and Kenscoff, restoring safe passage for local communities.
‘Era of impunity is over’
PNH Director General Vladimir Paraison and MSS Force Commander Godfrey Otunge warned that armed gangs would no longer operate with impunity.
“Those who continue to bear arms will face decisive action, while more targeted operations are already planned,” the commanders said in a joint statement.
They also praised residents for their cooperation and resilience, pledging continued protection and renewed efforts to restore peace.
Funding strain on mission
The latest raid comes amid serious financial challenges facing the multinational security mission.
Last week, President William Ruto discussed the Haiti deployment with U.S. Secretary of State and National Security Advisor Marco Rubio.
The two agreed on the need for stronger UN involvement, including a UN support office for the MSS mission.
“We concurred on the imperative and support for a resolution at the UN Security Council that establishes a UN support office for the MSS mission in Haiti,” Ruto said on August 19.
