Guatemala and Salvador forces join UN-backed mission to combat gang violence in Haiti News
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Guatemala and Salvador forces join UN-backed mission to combat gang violence in Haiti

Guatemala and El Salvador sent soldiers to Haiti to join the Multinational Security Support (MSS) on Friday, according to the announcement of the Haitian National Police. This group, consisting of 75 Guatemalan soldiers and eight Salvadoran soldiers, is joining as part of the MSS mission to assist in the fight against gang-related violence.

A second contingent of 75 Guatemalan soldiers is also expected to arrive in Haiti soon, further strengthening the number of Guatemalan troops deployed to support the Haitian National Police’s efforts to combat crime and restore public order.

In October 2023, the UN Security Council authorized a one-year MSS mission, headed by Kenya, to support the Haitian government in reestablishing law and order in response to escalating civil unrest and gang violence that has persisted since 2018. The Security Council renewed the mandate in September 2024. The Security Council has called on Member States and regional organizations to contribute personnel, equipment, and financial and logistical support to meet the Mission’s urgent needs.

In 2024, the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) released an investigative report on a massacre, with 207 known executions, carried out by the criminal gang in Port-au-Prince between December 6 and 11, 2024.  The UN offices recorded a total of 5,350 people killed in 2024, with a total of 17,000 deaths and injuries since the Wharf Jérémie gang has been active in Port-au-Prince since 2022.

UN human rights expert for Haiti, William O’Neill, also warned this Friday that armed gangs are deliberately targeting the country’s healthcare system and stressed the importance of protecting Haitians’ access to medical services.

The interim director-general of the Haitian National Police, Mr. Normil Rameau, stated that the cooperation between the police and the people of Haiti is the most effective way to facilitate the complete restoration of security and the establishment of lasting peace throughout the entire national territory.

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