Haitian Security Forces Launch Major Anti-Gang Operation in Port-au-Prince

Haitian security forces have initiated a substantial operation aimed at combating gang violence in the capital, Port-au-Prince. This campaign includes a targeted strike on the residence of notorious gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, known as “Barbecue,” who heads the Viv Ansanm criminal gang coalition. The Haitian National Police confirmed the action to the media on Saturday, stating that a drone attack successfully destroyed one of Cherizier’s homes.

The operation is part of a broader strategy to reclaim control over areas dominated by gangs, which, according to United Nations estimates, control approximately 90 percent of Port-au-Prince. Frantz Lerebours, a spokesperson for the national police, emphasized the significance of this operation. He stated, “The targeted operation allowed us to destroy his house and minimize any possibility of his group returning to the area.”

Haiti, recognized as the poorest country in the Americas, has not conducted elections in nearly a decade. The country grapples with escalating political instability and pervasive gang violence, which includes frequent incidents of murder, rape, robbery, and kidnapping. As a result, the humanitarian crisis has deepened, with around 1.4 million people displaced due to violence, as reported by UNICEF.

International Support and Local Challenges

Since early 2024, the security situation in Haiti has deteriorated significantly. Following the ousting of then-Prime Minister Ariel Henry by armed groups, the need for effective law enforcement has intensified. In response, eighteen countries have pledged to contribute personnel to a new anti-gang unit, which is set to take over from the UN multinational mission. According to Albert Ramdin, Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), this unit will comprise up to 5,500 soldiers, with deployment expected to begin by April 1, 2024.

The Haitian police have increased their presence in downtown Port-au-Prince, supported by international forces and private security firms. Reports from the scene indicate that drone explosions were audible throughout the day, underlining the intensity of the ongoing operations. Lerebours conveyed optimism, stating, “We are working to restore public order. We are conducting security patrols in these areas. This has not been possible for several years.”

In addition to the immediate security challenges, Haiti faces significant humanitarian issues. An estimated 5.7 million people are experiencing acute food insecurity, including 1.2 million children under the age of five. Transitional authorities in Haiti have announced plans to hold legislative and presidential elections in the summer of 2026, aiming to restore democratic governance and stability in the country.

The situation in Haiti remains complex, with the combination of gang violence, international intervention, and a pressing humanitarian crisis requiring urgent attention. As the government seeks to regain control and improve the lives of its citizens, the effectiveness of these operations will be crucial in shaping the future of Haiti.