Haitian security forces have intensified operations against armed gangs, killing Mathias Saintil, leader of the notorious Boston gang, during a coordinated security offensive involving explosive drones in Port-au-Prince.
Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé confirmed Saintil’s death on Friday, November 6, declaring that the country had one less gang leader as authorities continued efforts to regain control from criminal organisations.
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According to the Haitian National Police, Saintil sustained multiple gunshot wounds during the operation. However, the National Network for the Defense of Human Rights reported that he was critically injured in an explosive drone strike targeting his vehicle on Thursday night and died the following day while receiving medical treatment.
The human rights organisation said at least seven explosive drones were deployed in coordinated operations across several gang-controlled communities. Five gang members were reportedly killed and approximately 15 others injured in the attack targeting Saintil, with additional casualties recorded during separate confrontations.
Saintil’s Boston gang is affiliated with the powerful Viv Ansanm coalition, which controls significant sections of the Haitian capital and has expanded its influence into other parts of the country.
The intensified offensive comes amid an expanded international security presence, including the deployment of approximately 2,500 Salvadoran troops following an ambush that left four Salvadoran aviation technicians missing in gang-controlled territory on October 18.
Security forces have also targeted Wilson Joseph, known as Lanmò Sanjou, leader of the 400 Mawozo gang. His residence was reportedly targeted and destroyed during a separate operation, although Joseph was not present and remains at large.
Meanwhile, the human rights organisation has raised concerns about possible civilian casualties resulting from the drone operations, highlighting the risks associated with the expanding military campaign.
The latest developments underscore the challenges facing Haitian authorities as they intensify efforts to dismantle armed groups, restore security and regain control of communities affected by years of gang violence.
