HAITI-GSF says it remains focused on eliminating criminal gangs in Haiti.

PORT AU PRINCE, Haiti, CMC – The Gang Suppression Force (GSF) says it remains focused on dismantling gangs, restoring security, and laying the foundation for lasting peace and democratic governance in Haiti.

In a statement marking the new year, the GSF said it has been working in close coordination with the Haitian National Police (HNP) and Forces Armées d’Haïti (FAd’H) as efforts continue to bring peace, stability, and security to the French-speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country, as plans continue for holding elections this year.

On September 30 last year, the United Nations Security Council adopted a resolution authorising the transition of the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission into the GSF and authorising it to deploy up to 5,550 police and soldiers, with the power to detain suspected gang members.

The GSF said that since the authorisation took effect, GSF personnel, working in close coordination with the Haitian National Police (HNP) and Forces Armées d’Haïti (FAd’H), have “continued to achieve observable security milestones that have disrupted gang activities, leading to arrests and recovery of assorted arms and retaking territories under gang control.

“With sustained anti-gang operations ongoing, GSF, HNP, and FAd’H personnel have also intensified day and night patrols in various locations within and beyond Port-au-Prince, leading to the re-opening of most previously inaccessible transit routes and roads in the capital.”

The GSF said that in addition, the troops continue to provide dedicated security and protection of the country’s critical infrastructure, including the main airport, the port, and communication installations, to ensure continued and seamless flow of operations.

The GSF said that in a bid to expand patrol coverage, frequency, and timely response, the established Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in gang-affected areas have played a critical role in fostering security.

The GSF has also thanked personnel from The Bahamas, El Salvador, Guatemala, Jamaica, and Kenya “for their heroism, applauding the leadership of Haiti for continued support, the people of Haiti for having faith and confidence in the mission, as well as the international community for their continued support.

“The GSF also recognises the key role played by the local Haitian media through their fair coverage and reporting of security matters,” it said, adding “as we enter 2026, the GSF will remain focused on dismantling gangs, restoring security and laying the foundation for lasting peace and democratic governance.

”Together, we can achieve a future where Haiti enjoys enduring peace, security, stability, and prosperity.”

Meantime, the PNH said it has conducted a large-scale operation in the Bel-Air neighbourhood, targeting the stronghold of gang leader Jamesley, and that the “operation resulted in the neutralisation of several terrorists and the seizure of an impressive arsenal”.

But the PNH said, while “unfortunately, Jamesley managed to escape,” his operational capabilities were severely impacted by the seizure of the equipment.

“The PNH’s heavy equipment unit destroyed Jamesley’s house,” it said, adding that the seized equipment included a Mavic surveillance drone, handguns, assault weapons, and three 12-gauge shotguns. The operation also yielded logistical equipment.

“The most significant seizure involved ammunition. Several thousand rounds of ammunition were recovered, including 4,094 rounds of 5.56mm caliber and 867 rounds of 7.62mm caliber, demonstrating a significant capacity for harm,” the PNH said in its statement.

. The entire arsenal was formally registered and certified by the Weapons Service of the PNH’s Logistics Directorate.
”The PNH’s objective remains unchanged: to track down, dismantle, and definitively eradicate criminal groups to restore security, public peace, and the authority of the State for the well-being of all citizens.”

The operations by the security forces here follow the murder of the Chief Inspector, Jean Sterlin Hold, alias “Blan” or “San Souci”, head of the Lotin sub-police station in Fermathe, a locality in Fort-Jacques.

The PNH said that the senior police officer was known for his commitment to fighting the “Kraze Baryè” gang and for protecting the residents of Fort-Jacques, adding that he embodied a sense of duty, sacrifice, and dedication to serving the community.

The PNH said that the shooting took place in front of the “Sheeshee’s Food” Club in Fort-Jacques and that the preliminary investigation has identified the owner of the club as the main suspect.

“The Haitian National Police (PNH) extends its deepest condolences to the family of Chief Inspector Hold Jean Esterlin, to his loved ones, and to his colleagues and fellow officers of the PNH. It reaffirms its total commitment to ensuring that the truth is uncovered regarding this heinous act and that justice is served.”

The Mayor of Kenscoff, Jean Massillon, said this “solemn criminal act, an attack on the sacred right to life and the fundamental principles of republican order, constitutes a direct attack against public peace, collective security, and the civic engagement embodied by the victim in service to the Kenscoff community.

“The City Council offers its sincere condolences to the family of the murdered inspector, to his loved ones, to the police force, and to all the residents of Kenscoff, deeply affected by this tragic loss.”