Heavily Armed Gangs Attack Haiti’s Main International Airport in Escalating Violence
In a shocking display of violence, heavily armed gangs attempted to seize control of Haiti’s main international airport on Monday. The attack, which involved gunfire exchanges with police and soldiers, is the latest in a series of assaults on key government sites, marking an escalation in the country’s ongoing violence. This incident comes on the heels of a mass escape from Haiti’s two largest prisons, further exacerbating the security crisis.
The Toussaint Louverture International Airport was closed at the time of the attack, with no planes operating and no passengers present. Associated Press journalists witnessed an armored truck on the tarmac engaging in a firefight with the gangs, trying to prevent them from entering the airport grounds. As bullets whizzed by, scores of employees and workers fled for their lives.
As of late Monday, it remains unclear whether the attack was successful in seizing control of the airport. Last week, the airport was briefly struck by bullets during ongoing gang attacks, but the gangs did not enter or take control of the facility.
The attack on the airport occurred just hours after authorities in Haiti implemented a nighttime curfew due to escalating violence. Over the weekend, armed gang members overran the country’s two largest prisons, resulting in the mass escape of thousands of inmates. The situation has prompted a 72-hour state of emergency, with the government vowing to track down the escaped prisoners.
Gangs already hold an estimated 80% control over Port-au-Prince, the capital city. They have been increasingly coordinating their actions and targeting previously unthinkable locations, such as the Central Bank. Prime Minister Ariel Henry recently traveled to Kenya in an attempt to garner support for a United Nations-backed security force to help stabilize Haiti in its conflict with these powerful crime groups.
The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Port-au-Prince. The secretary-general emphasized the urgent need for action, including financial support, to address the pressing security requirements of the Haitian people and prevent further chaos.
Haiti’s National Police, with roughly 9,000 officers, is responsible for providing security to over 11 million people. However, they are routinely overwhelmed and outgunned by the gangs. Last year witnessed a significant increase in violence committed by gang members, including murders, lynchings, and rape. This trend has continued into 2024, with January being the most violent month in two years.
The recent attacks have resulted in the displacement of at least 15,000 people due to violence. Many residents have been forced to leave their homes as armed gangs continue to wreak havoc on communities. The situation has reached a new low, with the attack on the National Penitentiary leading to the escape of almost all inmates held there.
The Office of Citizen Protection has expressed serious concerns about the safety of judges, prosecutors, victims, attorneys, and others following the mass escape. The office also condemned the government’s nonchalant response to the attacks.
The surge in violence has prompted the U.S. Embassy to halt all official travel to Haiti. American citizens have been urged to depart as soon as possible. The Biden administration, while offering financial and logistical support, has refrained from committing troops to a multinational force for Haiti.
Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who assumed office following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, has postponed plans for parliamentary and presidential elections. The country has not held these elections in nearly a decade. Gang leader Jimmy Chérizier, also known as Barbecue, has claimed responsibility for the recent surge in attacks. He aims to capture Haiti’s police chief and government ministers and prevent Henry’s return.
The deteriorating security situation has left many Haitian Americans stranded in Haiti. Despite travel warnings, countless individuals remain on the island, facing the complexities of leaving their homes. The U.S. State Department has advised Americans to exercise caution while in Haiti.
The violence and chaos in Haiti continue to escalate, leaving the country in a state of uncertainty and fear. Urgent action is needed to address the security crisis and provide support to the Haitian people who are caught in the crossfire of armed gangs and a struggling government.
