Haiti: Increased gang activity in southern Port-au-Prince /update 1

Event

Significant inter-gang violence broke out in southern neighborhoods of Port-au-Prince on Monday, June 11. Automatic gunfire was reported in Portail Léogane, Bicentenaires, Bolosse, and Martissant throughout the day. According to local media sources, there were an unconfirmed number of casualties. Police officers have been deployed to the areas but no arrests have been confirmed. Further violence and security operations are possible in Port-au-Prince in the coming days and weeks.

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, particularly in the abovementioned areas, are advised to remain vigilant, avoid all protests and demonstrations, follow instructions issued by local authorities, and take security precautions (e.g. keep signs of wealth concealed, drive with doors locked and windows rolled up, avoid walking alone, avoid traveling in isolated urban areas at night, etc.). As criminals are often armed, do not attempt to resist would-be attackers or thieves and give up all demanded objects to avoid escalating the situation.