Haiti’s Gangs and Arms Trafficking Crisis
Some of Haiti’s gangs have bigger arsenals than the police as criminal groups are becoming “stronger, richer and more autonomous” by using arms trafficking to fuel their growth, according to UN experts. This has plunged the Caribbean nation into an ongoing political and humanitarian crisis with unprecedented levels of lawlessness.
Sophisticated Weaponry Trafficking
From Russian AK-47s and United States-made AR-15s to Israeli Galil assault rifles, a spike in trafficking increasingly sophisticated weaponry has gripped Haiti since 2021, said the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in its latest report on the illegal arms trade in Haiti.
- Random sniper attacks
- Mass lootings
- Kidnappings
- Attacks on prisons
These illegal weapons have led to displaced Haitians fleeing the violence, with more than 362,000 affected.
Challenges Faced by Authorities
Some gangs are using arms trafficking to expand their reach and claim strategic locations, hindering efforts to stop the illegal entry of weapons, according to independent expert Robert Muggah.
- More firepower than the police
- Control over strategic points like ports and roads
Consequences and Impact
Rampant gang violence has led to mass displacement, food insecurity, and a rise in gunshot deaths and injuries in Haiti. The increasing number of weapons in circulation is exacerbating the severity of wounds inflicted.
Gang Control and Operations
An estimated 150 to 200 armed groups operate across Haiti, with gangs controlling strategic areas and main roads, impacting trafficking activities.
Arms Trafficking Trends
Arms trafficking is lucrative, with high demand and prices. The presence of “ghost guns” adds to the challenge, being untraceable and privately manufactured.
US Sources and Routes
Most firearms and ammunition trafficked into Haiti originate in the United States, with suspicions of illegal operations involving unregistered flights and small airports along the south Florida coast.
Crackdown on Trafficking
UNODC has identified trafficking routes using Haiti’s porous borders and is training control units to identify high-risk containers and cargo. The international community must step up to support Haiti in this critical time.