Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
UN Staff Ordered Off Streets in Haiti Amid Gang Threats
Recent actions by Haitian gangs have led the United Nations and various foreign embassies to instruct their employees to avoid the streets of Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti. This directive was issued on Monday as security concerns escalated.
In light of these threats, UN security officials recommended that staff work remotely and limit travel in the western regions of Haiti. The Haitian National Police responded by canceling all staff leave until further notice, as reported by The Miami Herald.
Mathias Gillmann, a spokesperson for the UN Integrated Office in Haiti, confirmed via email that employees were advised to stay home throughout the day.
Gang Leader Issues Disturbing Warnings
The situation intensified when threats from a prominent gang leader surfaced on social media. This occurred following security operations conducted over the weekend by various forces, including the Haitian National Police, the Armed Forces of Haiti, and the Gang Suppression Force (GSF), a multi-national mission authorized by the UN Security Council.
Jimmy Chérizier, known widely as “Barbecue,” appeared in a video shared by an independent media outlet in Haiti, where he urged residents to remain indoors on November 17 to avoid possible victimization. A brief translation of his remarks indicated a clear intent to instill fear.
According to Chérizier’s message, he stated, “Those who don’t need to, do not go out into the streets. Leave the streets to ‘Viv Ansanm’ and the police so that we can confront them.” His warning has heightened anxiety among residents, especially with a major counter-offensive anticipated.
Overview of the Gang Coalition
The Viv Ansanm gang coalition, which includes the G-9 and G-Pép factions, was labeled a Specially Designated Global Terrorist Organization by the U.S. State Department back in May. This coalition emerged in September 2023 and has since exerted significant control over parts of Port-au-Prince.
On Sunday, the GSF reported through an X post that it had undertaken a successful security operation targeting the 400 Mawozo gang’s leadership and members. This operation reportedly resulted in multiple gang members being killed.
Details of the Security Operation
The operation conducted by GSF, alongside specialized Haitian police units, was marked by the seizure of various firearms, including an M50-caliber Barrett rifle, six assault rifles, and three handguns. Such developments illustrate the ongoing struggle between law enforcement and gang forces in the region.
A statement from GSF emphasized their commitment to diminishing gang influence, noting that the era of unchecked gang dominance was rapidly coming to an end. They pledged ongoing operations to ensure safety throughout Haiti, reiterating the importance of protecting communities and defending human rights against the violence perpetrated by gangs.
Despite the challenges, the statement also acknowledged a setback: a Haitian National Police helicopter that provided aerial support during operations faced a mechanical failure, leading to an emergency landing. Ground units tasked with rescuing the personnel on board came under heavy gunfire from gang members.
U.S. Marines Engaged in Gunfire
In a related incident, U.S. Marines assigned to protect the American embassy in Haiti found themselves in a tense situation on Thursday. They engaged in gunfire with suspected gang members. Thankfully, no injuries were reported among the service members.
Ongoing Concerns for Civilian Safety
The escalating violence poses an alarming threat to civilian safety in Haiti. With widespread gang control affecting daily life, the recommendations for UN and foreign embassy staff are symptomatic of a larger humanitarian crisis. The conditions in Port-au-Prince are becoming increasingly perilous, leaving residents in a state of fear.
As the situation continues to develop, local and international authorities are grappling with finding effective solutions to restore security. Many community leaders and residents are demanding a more decisive response to the growing gang violence that has gripped the nation.
Looking Ahead
While security forces intensify their efforts against gang leadership, the populace remains anxious about the immediate future. The risk of violence affects not only daily life but also humanitarian operations aimed at alleviating poverty and suffering in the region.
The ongoing unrest highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies that can address the root causes of gang formation. Only by tackling underlying social issues can Haiti hope to reclaim a sense of security and normalcy.
