Haiti’s capital paralysed by gunfire as gang boss threatens police chief and ministers

Heavy gunfire paralyzed Haiti’s capital on Thursday as a powerful gang leader warned of plans to capture the country’s police chief and government ministers.

Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s absence, as he finalizes details for deploying a foreign armed force to combat gangs, left a void. Gunmen targeted Haiti’s main international airport and other sites, causing widespread panic and forcing closures of businesses, government offices, and schools. Sunrise Airways suspended all flights amidst the chaos.

In a recorded video, Jimmy Chérizier, known as “Barbecue,” declared the intention to detain the police chief, government officials, and hinder Henry’s return. “With our guns and the Haitian people, we will liberate the country,” he asserted.

Attempts to reach the prime minister’s office for comment were unsuccessful, and messages to Haiti’s national police leadership went unanswered.

Chérizier’s faction, G9 Family and Allies, may not have unanimous support from other major gangs controlling much of Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital.

Diego Da Rin, of the International Crisis Group, mentioned Chérizier’s mention of a coalition called Viv Ansanm, formed last year with the aim of ousting Henry’s administration. However, the coalition dissolved shortly after its formation, leaving doubts about Chérizier’s current influence.

Despite internal gang dynamics, coordinated attacks occurred in Port-au-Prince and other areas on Thursday, including an assault on the main international airport and arson at a police station downtown.