Haiti’s security forces thwarted an attack on the country’s central bank in Port-au-Prince on Monday, killing at least three suspected gang members. The incident highlights the escalating gang violence that has gripped the capital in recent weeks.
The Bank of the Republic of Haiti (BRH) is one of the few remaining functional institutions in the city’s business district, which has been under the control of armed groups for the past three weeks. Bank employees report that security guards, backed by police and military forces, repelled the attack. A bank security guard was also wounded in the exchange.
This surge in gang violence began in late February when prison raids released thousands of inmates. The unrest fueled demands for the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry. Under pressure from international actors, Henry agreed to step down to facilitate the formation of an interim government.
Negotiations are ongoing to establish a transitional council that will appoint a temporary prime minister and pave the way for future elections. Haiti currently lacks both a president and a functional parliament, with the last national election held in 2016.
The UN Secretary-General urged Haitian stakeholders to find common ground and expedite the formation of the transitional government. The international community is eager to see a functioning administration established before deploying a multinational security force to support Haiti’s overwhelmed police.
The violence has exacerbated a dire humanitarian situation. The UN warns of potential famine and a near-collapse of essential services. Delivering aid remains challenging due to the volatile security situation. The UN appeals for increased international support to address the growing humanitarian needs.
The recent attacks have also crippled basic infrastructure. Vandals severely damaged multiple electrical substations, leaving several areas in Port-au-Prince without power. A curfew remains in place until Wednesday, and a state of emergency is expected to last until early April. The ongoing crisis has prompted the US and several European nations to evacuate diplomatic personnel from Haiti.
