Gangs control 90% of Haiti’s capital as violence spreads, UN officials warn

The situation in Haiti has reached a critical point, with criminal gangs exerting almost complete control over the capital city of Port-au-Prince. According to senior U.N. officials, the escalating violence in the Caribbean nation is pushing it “closer to the brink.”

Ghada Fathy Waly, the executive director of the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime, revealed that gangs now control an estimated 90% of Port-au-Prince. She also mentioned that these gangs are expanding into previously peaceful areas, with southern Haiti experiencing a sharp increase in gang-related incidents.

Furthermore, criminal groups are exploiting land routes, including key crossings like Belladere and Malpasse, where attacks against police and customs officials have been reported. The U.N. Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenca warned the Security Council that the “ongoing gang encirclement of Port-au-Prince” and their strengthened foothold in the capital are pushing the situation dangerously close to collapse.

The power of these gangs has significantly increased since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, with gangs previously controlling 85% of the capital. With Haiti still lacking a president since the assassination, the country is facing a governance vacuum that criminal elements are exploiting.

A recent U.N. report covering the period from October to February highlighted how gangs have taken advantage of political turmoil and the disorganized security response in Haiti. Competing political ambitions and corruption allegations within transitional governing bodies have hindered effective action against the escalating violence.

The U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory for Haiti in September 2024, urging Americans to avoid visiting the country due to the high risk of kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and limited healthcare. In response to the escalating crisis, the Trump administration designated two of Haiti’s most powerful gang networks, Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif, as foreign terrorist organizations and specially designated global terrorists.

As the situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate, it is crucial for the international community to take decisive action to prevent the total collapse of state presence in the capital. Without immediate intervention, Haiti faces the risk of descending into further chaos and violence.