Two Haitian SWAT officers were killed Tuesday evening in a devastating kamikaze drone explosion that struck their base in Kenscoff, leaving the nation reeling.
The blast, which also injured two other officers, has raised fears about the escalating use of weaponized drones by gangs in Haiti.
Authorities say civilians were carrying the drone when it detonated, though investigations remain ongoing.
The tragedy underscores the perilous conditions facing Haitian SWAT officers battling gangs as Haiti’s fragile security mission faces mounting risks and international concern.
Haitian SWAT Officers Killed in Kenscoff Drone Explosion
Two elite Haitian SWAT officers lost their lives Tuesday evening after a devastating kamikaze drone explosion rocked their base in the Kenscoff region. The incident also left two other officers injured and sent shockwaves through the fragile Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission.
According to the Haitian National Police (PNH), the drone was being carried by civilians when it detonated unexpectedly. Investigators are treating it as an accident for now, but the blast has raised fresh concerns about the growing presence of weaponized drones in Haiti, where gangs continue to wage a relentless war against the state.
The tragedy underscores the daily dangers Haitian SWAT officers face as they confront gangs controlling vast parts of Port-au-Prince and surrounding regions. The use of kamikaze drones has introduced a new and deadly dimension to an already volatile security crisis.
In a statement, the U.S. Embassy in Haiti mourned the loss of the two fallen officers, describing them as “brave men who made invaluable contributions to combating gangs and improving security conditions in Haiti.” The embassy added that their sacrifice “will never be forgotten.”
The United States further pledged unwavering support for the Haitian National Police and its SWAT teams, reaffirming its commitment to help Haiti restore order.
International Outpouring of Condolences
The deaths of the two Haitian SWAT officers drew immediate reactions from foreign allies, including the United States and Kenya.
Chargé d’affaires Eric Wooster extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the U.S. government, noting that the officers “died trying to protect their country from criminal gangs.” Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau also confirmed speaking directly to Haitian Prime Minister Fils-Aimé, pledging that Washington and its partners “remain steadfast” in backing Haiti’s battle against violent organizations.
Kenyan police officers currently deployed under the MSS mission also expressed solidarity with their Haitian counterparts. Senior Assistant Inspector General Godfrey Otunge, commander of Kenyan forces in Haiti, described the incident as “a painful reminder of the high price of restoring stability in Haiti.”
This tragedy comes months after Kenyan officers serving under the same mission suffered deadly losses. In February, a Kenyan officer succumbed to injuries sustained in Artibonite, while in March, another was killed during a firefight with gang members in Lower Artibonite. The pattern of casualties highlights the immense dangers faced by international forces stationed in the Caribbean nation.
Mounting Security Crisis in Haiti
The drone explosion is the latest in a string of violent incidents targeting security forces working to stabilize Haiti. In April, three Haitian soldiers were killed during an ambush by gang members while on a joint patrol with local and Kenyan forces.
With gangs expanding their influence across the capital, Haitian SWAT officers have increasingly become both the frontline defense and frequent targets. The use of drones marks a new chapter in the evolving tactics of armed groups, intensifying the risks for already overstretched security personnel.
Analysts warn that as long as gangs continue to access advanced weaponry, the mission’s challenges will deepen. The kamikaze drone incident underscores not only the tactical sophistication of Haiti’s armed groups but also the urgent need for enhanced intelligence, equipment, and international cooperation.
For families of the fallen Haitian SWAT officers, however, the tragedy is a deeply personal loss. Their sacrifice is now etched into the ongoing struggle to free Haiti from the grip of armed groups that thrive on fear and instability.
