Armed Gangs Attempt to Seize Control of Haiti’s Main International Airport
In a brazen display of power, armed gangs in Haiti made a bold attempt to seize control of the main international airport in the capital, Port-au-Prince. Exchanging gunfire with police and soldiers, the gangs, led by former elite police officer Jimmy ‘Barbecue’ Cherizier, brought chaos and fear to the Toussaint Louverture International Airport.
Cherizier, who now leads a gang federation, claimed responsibility for the attacks that forced the closure of the airport. The gangs, which already control up to 80% of Port-au-Prince and have targeted key government sites like the Central Bank, have left Haiti’s National Police force overwhelmed and outgunned.
The surge in attacks comes amid violent protests and ongoing instability in the country, with Prime Minister Ariel Henry being targeted by gangs while he is out of the country. Gang leaders like Cherizier and Johnson Andrï are at the center of the recent violence, demonstrating their growing power and control in Haiti.
Increased financial independence and access to high-caliber weapons have contributed to the gangs’ ability to challenge the government and security forces. With the situation escalating, the people of Haiti are left to wonder what the future holds for their country as armed gangs continue to push the limits of their control.
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