Haitian Government Says It Will Not Give Up Any Territory to Gangs

The government of Haiti said in a statement released on Tuesday, November 3, that it had no intention of ceding any ground to armed groups. According to the statement, the executive has pledged to continue, and possibly expand, the current security operations to other priority areas of the country.

The statement stresses that the Haitian National Police (PNH), the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd'H) and the Gang Suppression Force (FRG) are working together to neutralize the armed groups, protect the population and restore state authority. The government also said it wants to strengthen the FRG with the support of the United Nations and other partner countries.

The statement specifies that more than 3,258 new police officers have been recruited in three recent graduating classes, while investment continues in armored vehicles and specialized equipment. Efforts are also under way to train staff and modernize the operational resources of the PNH and FAd'H.

The executive said further operations in Kenscoff and Gressier were planned, with a possible extension to other parts of the West department as well as to Artibonite and the Centre, depending on operational priorities. The government pledged to respect the laws of the Republic and human rights while targeting armed gangs specifically.

The statement asserts that "the Haitian State will not give up any territory." However, it did not specify a timetable for the planned expansions or what additional resources would be allocated to them.

Institutional Strengthening

The executive also reported that the strengthening of national security institutions is continuing. Investments are under way in equipment and training for the security forces to improve their operational capabilities.