Haiti: Uptick in banditry and violent crime

Event

Several human rights groups have raised concerns regarding the increase of banditry and violent crime in Haiti, which regularly results in casualties and prevents the free circulation of people and vehicles. They are also denouncing the government’s insufficient efforts to address, or even properly acknowledge, the issue. Areas particularly impacted include the Port-au-Prince neighborhoods of Martissant, Bicentenaire, Gran Ravin, Portail Léogane, and Bolosse, among others.

On a related note, the Canadian foreign ministry issued a travel advisory on June 18, recommending its nationals in Port-au-Prince to avoid the neighborhoods of Martissant, Carrefour, Bel Air, and Cité Soleil due to high crime rates and an insufficient presence of security forces.

Context

Crime rates are very high in urban areas throughout Haiti due in part to gang activity. Theft, kidnapping-for-ransom, and extortion are all common. Foreigners are often specifically targeted due to their presumed wealth.

Advice

Individuals in Haiti are advised to avoid nonessential travel to the above areas. Individuals throughout the country are advised to adhere to the following recommendations: 

• Remain vigilant at all times while in public
• Minimize travel by foot
• Avoid going out after nightfall
• Maintain a low profile and avoid any conspicuous dress 
• Whenever possible, travel with a local guide
• Be extremely vigilant at ATMs and when exiting banks
• As criminals are often armed, never offer resistance during an attempted robbery; obey all orders given, avoid eye contact and sudden movements, and do everything in your power to keep the situation as calm as possible
• To avoid becoming an easy target, vary daily routes to reduce the predictability of your movements
• When driving, keep doors locked, windows rolled up, and all valuables out of plain sight; maintain sufficient space between you and the car ahead of you to allow for room to maneuver, keeping in mind that you are vulnerable when stuck in traffic
• If you believe you may be being followed, drive to a police station or other public facility, never home
• Park as close to your destination as possible when traveling by car, particularly after dark 
• When possible, use a chauffeured car service; never use public transportation