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3d ago

U.N. Expert Sees Opening as Expanded Haiti Anti‑Gang Force Begins Deploying

U.N. experts say initial deployments create a narrow opening to curb gang control.

A man walks along a deserted street where a part of the earthquake-destroyed Cathedral stands in downtown Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Monday, March 16, 2026. (AP Photo/Odelyn Joseph)
A moto-taxi driver transports clients through the Petion-Ville area of of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Monday, March 16, 2026. (AP Photo/Odelyn Joseph)
A woman searches garbage for items to use or sell in the Tabarre neighborhood of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Monday, March 16, 2026. (AP Photo/Odelyn Joseph)
A child plays at a shelter for families displaced by gang violence as he eats a meal in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Monday, March 16, 2026. (AP Photo/Odelyn Joseph)

Overview

  • The Security Council authorized a 5,550‑member mission with arrest powers to transform the Kenya‑led deployment into a dedicated gang‑suppression force.
  • A support office is already setting up in Haiti, with first troop contingents expected in early April and full deployment targeted by September.
  • William O’Neill reported recent liberation of territory and a more visible, motivated police presence, calling the next few months crucial.
  • Armed groups still control up to 90% of Port‑au‑Prince and are accused of murder, kidnapping, extortion and sexual violence, with Haiti lacking an elected president since 2021.
  • O’Neill urged broader sanctions on gang leaders and corrupt allies and called for stopping U.S.‑sourced weapons, with some Kenya‑led contingents from El Salvador, Guatemala and Jamaica expected to remain.