Haiti Declares State of Emergency as Armed Gangs Storm Prisons
In a shocking turn of events, armed gang members stormed Haiti’s two biggest prisons, leading to a state of emergency and nighttime curfew being declared by the government. The violence over the weekend resulted in the escape of killers, kidnappers, and other violent criminals from the prisons. The government has ordered the police to use all legal means to enforce the curfew and apprehend the offenders.
Prime Minister Ariel Henry had traveled abroad to seek support for bringing in a United Nations-backed security force to stabilize the country. However, the recent explosion of violence has highlighted the urgent need for action. The weekend saw coordinated attacks by gangs on state institutions in Port-au-Prince, including police stations, the international airport, and even the national soccer stadium.
The most shocking incident occurred when armed gangs stormed the National Penitentiary, resulting in almost all of the estimated 4,000 inmates escaping. The prison, which is usually overcrowded, was left eerily empty with no guards in sight. Three bodies with gunshot wounds were found at the prison entrance. In another neighborhood, the bloodied corpses of two men were discovered with their hands tied behind their backs.
Among the few inmates who chose to stay in the prison are 18 former Colombian soldiers accused of working as mercenaries in the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse. During the clashes, some of the Colombians pleaded for their lives in a video that went viral on social media. They have called for special protection from Haiti.
The violence has left inmates’ family members in distress as they rush to the prison to check on their loved ones. The situation remains uncertain, and many are left wondering about the fate of their relatives.
In addition to the National Penitentiary, a second prison in Port-au-Prince was also overrun by gangs. The nation’s top soccer stadium was occupied and vandalized, with one employee being held hostage for hours. Internet service was disrupted for many residents due to a slashed fiber optic cable connection.
The recent attacks on state institutions by gangs have raised concerns about the deteriorating security situation in Haiti. The U.S. Embassy has halted all official travel to the country and has urged American citizens to depart as soon as possible. The Biden administration, while offering money and logistical support, has refrained from committing troops to a multinational force. They are closely monitoring the situation and emphasizing the importance of elections, inclusive governance, and the restoration of democracy.
The violence in Haiti has been attributed to gangs that are increasingly coordinating their actions and targeting once unthinkable locations, such as the Central Bank. The country’s National Police, with roughly 9,000 officers, is overwhelmed and outgunned by these gangs, who are estimated to control up to 80% of Port-au-Prince.
Jimmy Chérizier, a former elite police officer known as Barbecue, has claimed responsibility for the surge in attacks. He aims to capture Haiti’s police chief and government ministers and prevent Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s return. Despite calls for his resignation, Henry has remained steadfast and has not commented on whether he feels it is safe to come back.
The situation in Haiti remains dire, with the government struggling to regain control of the streets. The state of emergency and curfew are attempts to restore order and bring the perpetrators of violence to justice. However, it is clear that more needs to be done to address the underlying issues that have led to this explosion of violence. The people of Haiti deserve a safe and secure environment where they can live without fear.
