Haitian authorities say they are making significant strides in reclaiming control of the capital, Port-au-Prince, from criminal gangs following a major security operation targeting the stronghold of notorious gang leader Jimmy Chérisier, widely known as “Barbecue.”
The operation, conducted by the Haitian National Police (PNH), focused on areas controlled by Chérisier, who heads the powerful Viv Ansanm gang coalition. Police spokesperson Frantz Lerebours said the offensive involved multiple specialized units and resulted in the deaths of at least six gang members. Several others were injured but managed to flee the scene.
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Lerebours reported that security forces seized a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition during the raid, along with five drones believed to have been used for surveillance or tactical purposes.
Police also recovered uniforms belonging to the Departmental Unit for Maintaining Order (UDMO), bearing the rank insignia of police inspector. Authorities suspect the garments may have been used by gang members to impersonate officers. In addition, bulletproof vests, tear gas grenades, and a plastic bag containing a small amount of cash were confiscated.
Meanwhile, Justice and Public Security Minister Patrick Pélissier said efforts to retake the capital are gaining momentum. He revealed that the government has received assistance from private security contractors, which he said has significantly strengthened law enforcement operations.
“The support of private companies has made the offensives of law enforcement more effective,” Pélissier said. “After securing areas such as the airport intersection, Delmas 19, and Nazon, the Haitian National Police are now clearing Magloire Ambroise Street. Large sections of the administrative center of Port-au-Prince have shifted from red zones to orange zones, and we will not stop there. We are now operating directly in the strongholds of the bandits.”
Criminal gangs have intensified their attempts to destabilize the country and overthrow the provisional government since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021. Their campaign of violence has plunged Haiti into a deep security crisis.
The United Nations has reported that thousands of people have been killed, raped, or displaced as gangs expand their control across large parts of the capital and surrounding communities.
Amid the ongoing turmoil, the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) continues national consultations with political and civil society stakeholders. The talks are aimed at preserving institutional stability ahead of February 7, 2026, when the current government’s mandate is set to expire.
