UN Reports Alarming Rise of Gang Control in Haiti’s Capital

The United Nations has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating influence of criminal gangs in Haiti, stating that these groups have achieved what can be described as “near-total control” over the capital, Port-au-Prince. As violence surges, the Caribbean nation stands on the verge of collapse, according to senior U.N. officials.

During an address to the U.N. Security Council, Ghada Fathy Waly, the executive director of the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime, revealed that gangs dominate approximately 90% of Port-au-Prince. She emphasized the alarming trend of gang activity spreading into areas that were previously thought to be safe.

Waly remarked, “Southern Haiti, which until recently was insulated from the violence, has seen a sharp increase in gang-related incidents.” Furthermore, she noted that in eastern regions, criminal organizations are capitalizing on land routes, particularly crucial crossings like Belladere and Malpasse, where attacks on police and customs officials have become increasingly common.

U.N. Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenca highlighted the grave circumstances, reporting that the ongoing gang encirclement of Port-au-Prince has solidified their control in the capital and further afield, bringing the situation perilously close to a breaking point.

Jenca cautioned the council that without decisive intervention from the international community, a complete breakdown of governmental presence in Port-au-Prince could swiftly become a devastating reality.

The rise of gang power in Haiti can be traced back to the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, an incident that led to gangs controlling an estimated 85% of the capital. Notably, Haiti has operated without a president since that tragic event.

Political Turmoil and Gang Expansion

A recent U.N. report covering the period from October to February paints a grim picture of the situation. It reveals that the instability in the country has enabled gangs to thrive, taking advantage of political disarray and a lack of effective security responses. The report argues that competing political ambitions and corruption within transitional governing bodies have significantly hampered any meaningful efforts to regain control.

Gangs’ Ruthless Strategies and Political Motives

According to U.N. experts, the expansion of gang territory not only provides these groups with new sources of revenue but also enhances their bargaining power in the ongoing political struggle. The report indicates that some gang-related attacks are orchestrated by individuals aiming to destabilize the political landscape for personal gain.

U.S. State Department’s Warning

In response to the escalating violence and dire security conditions, the U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory for Haiti in September 2024. The advisory warns American citizens against visiting the country due to significant risks including kidnapping, rampant crime, civil unrest, and a lack of adequate healthcare facilities.

International Designations and Responses

In May, the previous U.S. administration took a hardline stance by designating two of Haiti’s most notorious gang networks—Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif—as foreign terrorist organizations. This designation underscores the severity of the problem and indicates a shift towards recognizing the impact of gang violence on both national and international security.

Global Attention Required

The unfolding crisis in Haiti underscores the urgent need for global attention and action. While the international community has made some efforts to address the violence, the overall response has been viewed as inadequate in the face of such a significant challenge.

As the situation continues to deteriorate, it becomes evident that collaboration and a focused strategy are essential for restoring order in Haiti. The interplay of local gang violence with broader political dynamics calls for coordinated international efforts to stabilize the country.

The warning from the United Nations serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing struggles facing Haiti. The fate of Port-au-Prince and its residents hangs in the balance as gang violence grows more entrenched and the state’s ability to govern dwindles.

Expert opinions highlight that unless effective measures are implemented soon, the consequences could extend beyond Haiti, affecting regional stability and security.

Contributions to this report include insights from Fox News Digital and The Associated Press.