03 Mar 2024 | 04:15 AM UTC
Haiti: Gang violence continues in Port-au-Prince as of March 2
Gang violence continues following attack on National Penitentiary in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, March 2. Increased security, disruptions likely.
Gang violence is likely to continue affecting Port-au-Prince in the coming days following reports that gangs have attacked the National Penitentiary and freed multiple prisoners March 2. An upsurge in gang violence has affected the capital city since Feb. 29, causing disruptions to ground transport, business operations, diplomatic services, and flights at the capital's Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP). G9 gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, also known as "Barbecue," has claimed responsibility for recent shooting attacks targeting police facilities and locations near PAP; gunfire reportedly struck aircraft on the airport's tarmac. Police have deployed throughout the capital in response to the violence. As of March 1, the US government reiterated its advice to US citizens not to travel to Haiti.
Additional flare-ups of gang violence are likely in Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas over the coming days and may cause widespread disruptions to transport and business. Airlines may delay, cancel, or otherwise modify scheduled flights to and from Port-au-Prince over the short term following the latest violence; multiple airlines suspended flights to and from Port-au-Prince Feb. 29-March 1 due to the unrest.
Avoid areas affected by significant gang violence. Maintain heightened vigilance if operating in Port-au-Prince. Prepare for lingering disruptions to ground transport, flights, business operations, and diplomatic services. Consider making alternative arrangements for time-sensitive travel. Leave the area immediately if violence erupts nearby; if unable to do so, take refuge in a secure building until it is safe to depart. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and your home government.
The recent violence comes as Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry visits Kenya for negotiations regarding a UN-backed multinational security deployment in Haiti. Cherizier (Barbecue) claimed that the Feb. 29 attacks were intended to target government officials, including Haitian National Police Chief Frantz Elbe, in an attempt to dissuade Henry from returning to the country and to oust his government.
