Jimmy ‘Barbecue’ Cherizier stands at the center of a crisis in Haiti, a country spiraling deeper into chaos. Cherizier, leader of an alliance of gangs that controls around 90% of Port-au-Prince, has been indicted in the U.S. on serious charges, including conspiracy to evade sanctions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. His reign has been marked by extreme violence, prompting the U.S. State Department to offer a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to his capture.
The Biden administration has faced intense criticism for its handling of the deteriorating situation in Haiti. With rampant gang violence and a government struggling to maintain control, the country is described as an “absolute hell-hole.” The UN’s attempts at intervention—sending peacekeepers from Kenya—have fallen flat in the face of escalating lawlessness.
In a significant move, Erik Prince, a former Navy SEAL and founder of the controversial Blackwater security firm, is stepping in. His company, Vectus Global, plans to deploy 200 private military contractors (PMCs) to Haiti for a year-long mission. According to reports, this deployment aims to help the Haitian government reclaim territories overtaken by heavily armed gangs. Prince himself has indicated an ambitious goal: regaining control of major roads and territories within a year. “One key measure of success for me will be when you can drive from Port-au-Prince to Cap Haitian in a thin-skinned vehicle and not be stopped by gangs,” he stated in a recent interview.
Prince’s involvement comes during a critical time, as the situation has become increasingly dire. Vectus Global intends to collaborate closely with Haitian police, also bringing in foreign-trained snipers and specialists. The chaotic state of Haiti highlights a desperate need for effective security solutions. As Prince elaborated on his long-term strategy, it is evident he views this mission as a crucial test, both for himself and for Haiti’s future.
The complexities of this situation underline a broader reality: Haiti needs urgent assistance to restore order and stability. With Cherizier’s dominance and the rise of private military companies in response to governmental shortcomings, the path to peace is fraught with challenges. The world will be watching closely to see if Prince and his team can make a real impact in the beleaguered nation.
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