Haiti Launches Major Police Operation Against Notorious Gang Leader

In an escalating response to rampant gang control that has paralyzed the capital, Haiti's police conducted significant raids targeting gang leader Jimmy Chérizier and his associates over the weekend.

The government of Haiti has initiated a robust police operation in Port-au-Prince, focusing on the stronghold of notorious gang leader Jimmy Chérizier, commonly referred to as "Barbecue." This move comes as part of an urgent attempt to address the crippling gang violence that has plunged the city into chaos. The operation took place in the Lower Delmas neighborhood and is reported to have resulted in multiple gang member fatalities, though exact numbers remain unverified.

Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé expressed his support for the assault, highlighting the rapid deployment of a special task force that was established only two days prior, aimed at combating the pervasive insecurity. Some reports indicate the utilization of military drones carrying explosives to enhance the effectiveness of the mission.

Jimmy Chérizier, age 47, leads a coalition of gangs known as Viv Ansam (Live Together) that exerts significant control over much of the city. The current operation raises questions about the role of Kenyan police officers, who were deployed to assist Haiti in its battle against gangs last year, although their involvement in the recent operation is unconfirmed.

The wave of violence has led to dire consequences, with over 5,500 lives claimed by gang-related incidents in 2024 alone. The humanitarian crisis is further exacerbated by the displacement of more than a million citizens and the collapse of essential services, including healthcare and food security. Amid these challenges, Haiti's transitional presidential council has struggled to resume the electoral process, which remains delayed.