US Reminds Nationals the Security Situation in Haiti is Still "Unpredictable"
PORT AU PRINCE, Haiti – The United States says the security situation in Haiti is “unpredictable and dangerous,” and warned its nationals to not travel to the country.
Haitian law enforcement officials on patrol (File PHoto)In an advisory, Washington said it has been monitoring localized outbreaks of gang-led violence in Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas.
“Gang-led violence, including occasionally intense gunfire, can occur in any area of Haiti and can involve risks of being struck by stray bullets. In the coming days, we advise particular caution when traveling through the areas of Pierre 6 and Carrefour Drouillard around Toussaint Louverture International Airport and around Port-au-Prince’s seaports.”
The US Embassy here said it is also reminding all citizens that Haiti, including Port-au-Prince, remains under a Level 4, “Do Not Travel” advisory and that travel within Haiti is conducted at your own risk.
“The US government cannot guarantee your safety traveling to airports, borders, or during any onward travel. You should consider your personal security situation before traveling anywhere in Haiti,” the Embassy added.
It is reminding Americans not to travel to the country, and that If you are in Haiti ‘avoid crowds, monitor local media for updates and avoid areas where violence, demonstrations, or disruptions are reported to be happening.
Americans are also being asked to keep a low profile and avoid being outside after dark.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defense and the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd’H) says it is seeking to recruit persons to become soldiers.
In a statement, the FAd’H said that recruiting period would be until August 12, and that prospective candidates must be of Haitian nationality; be at least 18 years old and no more than 25 years old, be in good physical and mental health.
They must also be in possession of a certificate of good conduct issued by the Haitian National Police as well as a letter of recommendation.
Earlier this week, the head of the Transitional President Council (TPC), Edgard Leblanc Fils, speaking in Grenada where he attended the CARICOM summit, said he expects presidential and legislative elections to be held by the end of 2025.
He said Haiti has also benefitted from the deployment of police officers from Kenya under the United Nations sanctioned mission to combat powerful armed gangs that have wreaked turmoil in the Caribbean country
“We have also benefited from the participation within this CARICOM conference, equally to greet and to thank the President of Kenya Mr. (William) Ruto …and equally as the countries, Benin, Jamaica, and all those who have supported the fight against the gangs.
“We are very appreciative once again for being a part of this conference and we are looking forward to unity and sharing for the safety and security of all people,” Fils said.
