Haiti: Police-affiliated group staging disruptive protests in Port-au-Prince as of March 17

Event

The Fantome 509 group, which is known to comprise current and former Haitian National Police (HNP) members, is continuing to stage disruptive protests in Port-au-Prince March 17. The group has been protesting in the capital since March 15 demanding the release of the bodies of the police officers killed during the unsuccessful security operation in the Village de Dieu area. Four police officers were killed during the raids. As of the morning of March 17, protesters are said to have blocked roads in Delmas, Gerald Bataille (Avenue Mais Gate), Peguy Ville, and Bourdon. Additional protests are likely until the bodies of the deceased are returned; demonstrations may materialize throughout the city.

There is an elevated threat of violence at all Fantome 509 protests. Protesters could attempt to block roads, burn vehicles, and vandalize public offices and private businesses; protesters may also fire shots into the air with live ammunition. The protests are likely to cause major traffic disruptions for as long as they last, and may prompt the closure of some businesses.

Advice

Avoid all protests; shelter in place if unrest occurs nearby. Monitor local media for information regarding protest activity and road closures. Do not attempt to pass through roadblocks; wait for authorities to remove them. Confirm all business appointments.