Haiti's Police Launch Major Offensive Against Gang Leader

In response to escalating gang violence, Haiti's government has initiated an extensive police operation in a shantytown governed by influential gang boss Jimmy "Barbecue" Chérizier.

Haiti's government has declared a significant police operation targeting the stronghold of notorious gang leader Jimmy Chérizier, known as Barbecue, in the Lower Delmas section of the capital, Port-au-Prince. In recent reports, officials confirmed that several gang members were killed during the assault. The operation is notable for the deployment of military drones equipped with explosives, underscoring the severity of the situation.

Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé commended the operation, attributing it to a newly formed special task force aimed at combating rampant insecurity. Chérizier, aged 47, heads the Viv Ansam (Live Together) coalition, which exerts considerable control over the city. However, the involvement of Kenyan police officers, who are stationed in Haiti to assist in fighting gang violence, in this specific operation remains unverified.

The humanitarian situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate with gang warfare contributing to a near-total breakdown of law and order. Last year, over 5,500 lives were lost due to gang-related incidents, and more than a million individuals have been displaced as a result of the violence. The transitional presidential council, formed to restore democratic processes, has struggled to organize elections that have long been delayed, further complicating the country’s challenges.