Government and police authorities are trying to reassure the population of their commitment to fighting gangs by announcing various measures, including the strategy of using explosive drones, following a protest by residents of Canapé-Vert who sought to enter the guest house to demand action against insecurity. With the support of the multinational mission promised for the eradication of gangs, Haitian authorities say they continue working to restore security in a context where the threat of gang attacks weighs on certain neighborhoods in the capital.
PORT-AU-PRINCE — The police have announced several measures to ensure security in the capital, as threats of gang attacks loom over several neighborhoods in Delmas and Canapé-Vert. Among these measures, authorities have reinforced their presence in targeted areas, conducted body searches, set up checkpoints, and intensified identity verifications of people using main roads.
“These interventions aim to counteract acts of banditry,” stated the police’s general directorate in a [statement](https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BabaRxhkX/?mibextid=wwXIfr). “To facilitate the free movement of citizens, the National Police carried out an operation in Tabarre and Delmas, specifically at the entrance of Toussaint Louverture International Airport, as well as in Delmas 31 and 62.”
The Haitian National Police (PNH) spokesperson, Lionel Lazarre, could not be reached for comment on the measures being taken to counter the gangs’ advance, which has raised serious concerns.
The latest security measures come a day after residents of Canapé-Vert and displaced persons in camps protested, demanding concrete action against gangs threatening their area. Frustrated by the authorities’ lack of results, demonstrators armed with machetes marched toward Villa d’Accueil to voice their demands.
During efforts to disperse the protest, police used tear gas and fired live ammunition, killing one protester and injuring at least three others.
Meanwhile, gangs have taken over Delmas 30 and Delmas 19 after attacking Solino, Delmas 24, and Nazon. Their advance has made Carrefour Aéroport Street inaccessible, paralyzing economic activity in the area. The worsening security situation in March forced several schools and NGOs, including Médecins Sans Frontières, to shut down to protect their staff.
Officials meet to coordinate anti-gang operations
Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, head of the Supreme Council of the National Police (CSPN), said after the Canapé-Vert protest that efforts to restore security are ongoing.
“We hear them, we understand them, and we experience the same insecurity. We continue to work for them as we have always done,” Fils-Aimé told Le Nouvelliste. “Our only concern is restoring security so that the population can go about their daily activities.”
As gangs continue their attacks, a high-level security meeting was held at the PNH General Directorate in Clercine. Attendees included Transitional Presidential Council President Fritz Alphonse Jean, PNH Director General Rameau Normil, Haitian Armed Forces (FAd’H) Commander-in-Chief Lieutenant General Derby Guerrier, and Inspector Godfrey Otunge, commander of the multinational security support force.
> We hear them, we understand them, and we experience the same insecurity. We continue to work for them as we have always done. Our only concern is restoring security so that the population can go about their daily activities.”
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> Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, Prime Minister and Head of the Superior Council of the National Police (CSPN)
Authorities described the meeting as a key step in coordinating efforts between the country’s three main security forces as part of a broader strategy to restore peace and stability.
Government confirms use of explosive drones as new tactic
As police deploy to gang-affected areas, the government has announced new combat strategies, including the use of explosive drones to target gang bases, key roads, and gathering points.
“For several months, various strategic actions have been carried out to combat insecurity. Military and police operations have already led to the neutralization of many gang members or forced them to flee,” authorities said.
“The new strategy put in place by law enforcement includes the use of drones and other modern equipment to enhance response capabilities.”
The Transitional Presidential Council and the government have sought to reassure the public, emphasizing that restoring security requires time, effective strategies, coordination among stakeholders, and public cooperation.
“The country is going through a difficult time where insecurity threatens the lives and well-being of every citizen. However, the fight will continue relentlessly to restore order, peace, and stability throughout the territory,” officials said in a statement.
Meanwhile, as authorities work on long-term solutions, civilians in targeted areas are taking matters into their own hands. Armed with machetes, sticks, stones, and bottles, and supported by some police officers, vigilante groups are forming to defend their neighborhoods.
“We will no longer take orders if the gangs can advance without any action against them. Today, the Haitian state is our enemy,” said a member of the Canapé-Vert brigade.