US Embassy Warns Citizens Amid Violence in Haiti
The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, issued a warning to American citizens on Saturday regarding ongoing security operations around the embassy and in Croix-de-Bouquets. Reports of heavy gunfire in the capital led the U.S. government to restrict all movements for embassy personnel, according to a State Department alert.
The embassy remains open for emergency services, and officials are advising nearby U.S. citizens to stay clear of the area and keep an eye on local news for updates.
Armed gangs have taken control of significant parts of Port-au-Prince and its surroundings, as reported by both the U.S. State Department and the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. Croix-de-Bouquets, mentioned in the security alert, has been identified as a stronghold for the “400 Mawozo” gang.
The leader of this gang, Joly Germine, was sentenced to life in prison in December for his role in the 2021 kidnapping of 16 American citizens, including five children, according to prior reports.
The State Department currently has a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” warning for Haiti, citing dangers such as kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and limited access to healthcare.
As the situation continues to develop, authorities urge U.S. citizens to remain cautious.
