23 Sep 2019 | 05:47 PM UTC
Haiti: Gunfire amid protests outside of parliament building in Port-au-Prince September 23
Reports of gunfire amid protests outside of the parliament building in Port-au-Prince September 23; heightened security presence and traffic disruptions expected in the area
Event
A Haitian senator reportedly opened fire on a crowd of protesters outside of the parliament building in Port-Au-Prince in the morning (local time) on Monday, September 23. Two people were injured as a result of the shooting. Burning tires and incidents of protesters throwing rocks have also been reported on Route de Freres and in the Torcel area in Port-au-Prince on Monday. US diplomatic authorities have advised individuals to limit movement and avoid the area.
A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected in the area over the coming hours.
Context
Haiti has faced numerous demonstrations in recent months to call for greater government transparency after several public officials, including President Jovenel Moïse, were implicated in a scandal related to the alleged misuse of PetroCaribe funds. Protests have segmented society and have exacerbated an already unstable political situation. The security environment in Haiti remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
Advice
Individuals in Port-au-Prince are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate localized transportation disruptions, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
The security environment in Haiti remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
