The family of Benedict Kabiru, a Kenyan police officer who died during a security mission in Haiti, plans to hold a mock burial after losing hope that his body will be recovered.
Kabiru, 34, was part of the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission deployed to restore order in the gang-ravaged Caribbean nation. Initially reported missing, he was later declared dead by the government.
“When his colleagues returned, we were disappointed there was no mention of him, nor any update from the government,” said his uncle, Daniel Kabiru. “There has been no clarity, and no government officials seem willing to talk to us.”
Kabiru died alongside Corporal Kennedy Mutuku Nzuve and Constable Samuel Kaetuwai, whose bodies were repatriated and buried. His remains, however, have not been found.
Through their lawyer, the family has sought answers from the National Police Service and plans to petition the High Court to have him presumed dead to settle legal and family matters.
The case comes as Kenya withdraws its officers from Haiti, ending the mission amid lingering concerns over its challenges and losses.
