Belize Defence Force Prepares for Haiti Deployment

The Belize Defence Force is sending two senior officers to Jamaica before their deployment to Haiti, as part of an international security mission to assist Haitian police in combating powerful gangs. The mission, which includes Kenyan police, aims to address the humanitarian crisis caused by gang control in the capital.

The Belize Defence Force (BDF) is mobilizing two senior officers to Jamaica as a prelude to their assignment in Haiti. This deployment underscores Belize's commitment to an international security mission aimed at supporting Haitian police efforts to curb gang violence.

In 2022, Haiti requested international assistance to combat armed gangs that have seized control of the capital and are spreading to adjacent areas, intensifying a humanitarian crisis marked by mass displacements and severe hunger. Approximately 400 Kenyan police officers are already on the ground, with more expected from nations like the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Belize.

Belize pledged in May to contribute 50 military personnel to the mission. Key planned deployments before month-end include troops from the Jamaican Defence Force, and Benin, which has promised at least 1,500 troops. The BDF stated these officers would first go to Jamaica to undertake critical operational planning.

"The BDF will be collaborating with the Jamaican Defence Force as part of a multinational task force dedicated to supporting Haiti's restoration efforts," said the BDF on X.

(With inputs from agencies.)