Weekly report June 16 to June 23, 2026

Evergreen provides $13.6 million guarantee as Haiti border security project moves toward launch

Evergreen Trading System Limited LLC has reportedly provided the Haitian government with a US$13.6 million financial guarantee tied to the mobilization phase of its border security and customs modernization contract. The guarantee serves as security for the advance payment required under the agreement and marks another significant step toward the anticipated launch of operations later this month.

According to sources familiar with the project, Evergreen is awaiting the release of mobilization funds that would allow the company to fully activate its operational plan. Initial movement of equipment and resources has reportedly already begun in preparation for a targeted operational start date of June 29.

The project stems from a ten-year agreement approved earlier this year between the Haitian government and an Evergreen-led consortium focused on strengthening border security, modernizing customs operations, improving immigration controls, and increasing the country's ability to combat transnational crime, smuggling, tax fraud, and illicit trafficking.

Who is Evergreen?

Evergreen Trading System Limited LLC is a U.S.-based company that specializes in customs modernization, border management, revenue assurance, surveillance technology integration, and government support services. The company has worked on projects involving customs enforcement, trade facilitation, revenue collection systems, and border security solutions designed to help governments improve both security and financial oversight.

In Haiti, Evergreen was selected to lead one of the country's most ambitious border modernization efforts in decades. The project is designed not only to strengthen security along Haiti's borders but also to improve the government's ability to collect customs duties and reduce losses associated with smuggling and underreported imports. The company is expected to work alongside Haitian authorities while deploying international technical experts, specialized equipment, and support personnel.

Several media reports and civil society organizations have alleged links between Evergreen Trading System Limited and entities associated with Erik Prince, the founder of Blackwater and chairman of Vectus Global. While the exact corporate relationship has not been publicly disclosed, both the Evergreen border modernization project and Prince-linked security initiatives have been described as part of broader efforts to strengthen Haiti's border security, customs enforcement, and anti-smuggling capabilities. Haitian authorities have not publicly detailed the nature of any relationship between the two organizations.

Revenue Generation and Security

Beyond the security aspects of the project, Haitian officials have consistently highlighted the potential financial benefits of modernizing customs and border operations. Customs duties and taxes remain one of the Haitian government's primary sources of revenue, yet for years authorities have struggled with widespread smuggling, underreporting of imports, corruption, and limited oversight at key ports and border crossings.

Supporters of the initiative have repeatedly emphasized that the primary objective is not only security, but also revenue generation. Haitian customs collections have long been affected by smuggling and weak enforcement at several border crossings, resulting in significant losses of government revenue. Officials hope that improved controls, enhanced inspections, and modern monitoring systems will substantially increase customs revenue while also disrupting the movement of weapons, contraband, narcotics, and other illicit goods.

The Evergreen initiative is intended to address these challenges through the use of advanced technology, enhanced monitoring capabilities, improved inspections, and greater accountability throughout the customs process. Government officials believe these measures could strengthen state institutions while generating additional revenue needed to support government operations and public services.

Scope of the Program

Publicly available information indicates that the program will focus on Haiti's major land border crossings with the Dominican Republic, as well as key seaports and other strategic points of entry. The initiative is intended to enhance government oversight of the movement of people and goods while increasing customs revenue collection and improving the detection of illegal activities.

Mobilization funding is expected to support the deployment of significant operational resources, including helicopters, maritime assets, vehicles, communications systems, surveillance technology, drone platforms, tactical support equipment, and both local and international personnel. Reports have also referenced the planned introduction of fixed and mobile scanning systems, upgraded monitoring capabilities, and advanced border management technologies.

The project comes at a time when Haiti continues to face serious security challenges, including the trafficking of weapons, ammunition, narcotics, and other contraband through both land and maritime routes. By combining customs modernization with enhanced border security capabilities, the government aims to strengthen its ability to monitor and control the movement of people and goods entering the country.

Looking Ahead

The reported deployment of helicopters, maritime assets, drones, surveillance systems, and specialized personnel underscores the scale of the initiative and reflects a broader effort to establish a more modern and effective border management system. Supporters argue that improved border controls and customs modernization could significantly reduce smuggling while increasing government revenues at a time when Haiti faces major fiscal and security challenges.

At the same time, the project has generated debate among some civil society organizations and political observers, who have questioned the long-term financial commitments associated with the contract and the role of private foreign firms in sensitive national security and customs functions.

Regardless of the political debate, the issuance of the $13.6 million guarantee and the reported mobilization of equipment suggest that the project is moving closer to operational implementation. If the current timeline holds, the coming weeks could provide the first indication of how the modernization effort will affect customs operations, border security, and revenue collection at several of Haiti's most critical points of entry.

Sources

Le Nouvelliste – "Contract / Security Reinforcement / Borders: Evergreen Provides a $13.6 Million Guarantee to the Haitian State" (June 22, 2026)

Le Nouvelliste – "US$500 Million Border Security Contract Receives Court of Auditors Approval" (2026)

Le Nouvelliste – "Details Revealed on Erik Prince's Proposed Customs and Border Modernization Contract in Haiti" (2025)

Haiti Libre – Reporting on Vectus Global and Haiti Border Security Initiatives (2025)

Fondasyon Je Klere (FJKL) statements and reports regarding the Evergreen and Vectus contracts (2026)

Canada Caribbean Institute – Analysis of Haiti Security and Border Contracts (March 2026)

Public statements and contract information released by the Government of Haiti regarding the customs modernization and border security initiative.

U.S. Diplomat calls for professionalism and reform within the Haitian national police

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Henry T. Wooster has praised the courage and sacrifice of officers serving in the Haitian National Police (HNP) while emphasizing the need for continued reform and institutional integrity within the force.

Speaking about the difficult security environment facing Haiti, Wooster acknowledged the extraordinary challenges confronting HNP personnel on a daily basis. He noted that officers are routinely engaged in dangerous operations, direct confrontations with heavily armed gangs, and security missions that often exceed the traditional responsibilities of a civilian police force.

According to Wooster, the HNP is operating under conditions that few law enforcement agencies around the world would willingly face. He observed that many of the criminal groups confronting Haitian authorities employ tactics more commonly associated with military insurgencies and terrorist organizations than conventional criminal networks.

Wooster noted that the HNP was never designed to function as an elite military unit. Referring to the U.S. Navy's famed SEAL Team Six, he stated that the Haitian National Police is not a special operations force created to conduct counterterrorism and military-style combat missions. Nevertheless, the HNP increasingly finds itself confronting threats that resemble an armed insurgency more than traditional criminal activity, forcing officers into situations that extend well beyond normal policing duties.

Despite recognizing the professionalism and bravery demonstrated by many officers, the senior U.S. diplomat stressed that maintaining integrity within the institution remains essential. He argued that public trust and accountability are critical components of any successful police force and emphasized that the HNP must continue efforts to strengthen internal discipline, professionalism, and transparency.

At the same time, Wooster acknowledged that additional work remains to address internal challenges within the organization. He emphasized that operational success against gangs must be accompanied by efforts to improve accountability and reinforce ethical standards throughout the force.

Wooster's comments come at a time when the HNP remains at the forefront of Haiti's fight against powerful gang coalitions that continue to challenge state authority across large portions of the country. The force has sustained significant casualties in recent years while conducting operations aimed at restoring government control in gang-affected areas.

The remarks reflect a longstanding position of the United States and other international partners that Haiti's security challenges require not only operational support and resources, but also continued institutional development to ensure the HNP remains a professional, accountable, and trusted national institution.

Anti-gang force conducts major security operation in tabarre, seizes incendiary devices and arrests suspects

The Gang Suppression Force (FRG/GSF) announced that it conducted a major security operation in the commune of Tabarre on June 21, resulting in the seizure and destruction of hundreds of Molotov cocktails, the arrest of more than ten suspects, and the securing of an area allegedly used by criminal organizations.

According to the mission, the operation was launched following the collection and analysis of intelligence indicating that armed groups were utilizing a strategic location within Tabarre as a logistics and support base. Security forces targeted the area during a coordinated operation aimed at disrupting gang activities and reducing the threat posed by criminal networks operating in the region.

During the operation, personnel discovered and destroyed hundreds of Molotov cocktails, preventing the improvised incendiary devices from potentially being used in future attacks. Mission officials stated that the area was believed to serve as both a storage location and operational support point for armed groups active in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area.

More than ten individuals were detained during the operation and subsequently transferred to Haitian authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.

According to the FRG, its personnel came under fire during the operation and returned fire while securing the objective. Despite the exchange of gunfire, mission officials reported that no security personnel were killed or injured and that control of the area was successfully established.

Following the operation, the force announced that it would maintain an enhanced security presence in the area through continued surveillance activities and routine patrols aimed at preventing armed groups from reestablishing a foothold.

The FRG stated that the operation was conducted as part of its mandate under United Nations Security Council Resolution 2793 and highlighted plans to expand its operational capacity in the coming weeks through the arrival of additional personnel and equipment.

Mission officials emphasized that anti-gang operations are intended not only to target criminal organizations but also to create conditions that allow schools to reopen markets to function, roads to be rehabilitated, and public services to return to communities affected by insecurity.

According to the mission, restoring security remains a critical prerequisite for Haiti's longterm stabilization and recovery efforts.

The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince also reacted positively to the operation, describing it as evidence of growing operational effectiveness within the international security mission supporting Haiti.

In a statement released following the operation, the embassy noted that the seizure and destruction of a large cache of Molotov cocktails, along with the arrest of multiple suspects, demonstrated tangible progress in efforts to combat insecurity.

The embassy further stated that the operation reflects the mission's gradual but steady approach to building operational capacity while simultaneously conducting field operations. U.S. officials reaffirmed Washington's support for Haiti and the Haitian people, emphasizing the shared goal of a safer, more stable, and more prosperous future.

The Tabarre operation comes as Haitian authorities and international partners continue efforts to dismantle armed criminal networks that have expanded their influence across parts of the capital and surrounding areas. Security officials hope that sustained pressure on gang logistics networks and weapons caches will help reduce violence and improve overall security conditions in affected communities.

UN chief reaffirms support for Haiti while calling for greater international backing

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres met with Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé and senior government officials during a visit to the National Palace on June 16, where discussions focused on security, institutional stability, and Haiti's path back to democratic governance.

According to the Haitian government, the meeting addressed ongoing efforts to improve security conditions, strengthen state institutions, and create the environment necessary for the eventual organization of free, inclusive, and credible elections.

During the discussions, Guterres praised the efforts of Haiti's security forces in confronting armed groups and restoring state authority. He specifically recognized the work of the Haitian National Police (HNP), the Haitian Armed Forces (FAd'H), and the Gang Suppression Force (GSF), highlighting their contributions to ongoing security operations.

The UN Secretary-General reaffirmed the United Nations' commitment to supporting Haiti's security and humanitarian objectives, emphasizing the importance of continued international cooperation to help the country overcome its multidimensional crisis.

A key message delivered by Guterres during his visit was the need for the international community to follow through on previously announced commitments to Haiti's security mission. The Secretary-General has repeatedly stressed that international efforts in Haiti have been hindered by shortages of personnel, funding, equipment, and logistical support.

His comments appear closely tied to the experience of the former Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), which struggled to reach its planned force levels despite receiving broad international backing. Although more than 3,000 personnel were pledged by participating countries, the MSS operated for much of its deployment with fewer than half of that number on the ground. Mission leaders also repeatedly cited shortages of funding, aircraft, armored vehicles, communications equipment, intelligence assets, and logistical support as significant obstacles to operational effectiveness.

These shortfalls limited the mission's ability to conduct sustained operations, maintain a permanent presence in cleared areas, and expand security gains beyond a handful of operational zones. Kenyan officials and international partners repeatedly appealed for additional resources, warning that the mission could not achieve its full potential without greater support from the international community.

The transition from the MSS to the Gang Suppression Force under UN Security Council Resolution 2793 was intended, in part, to address many of these shortcomings. The GSF was authorized with a larger force ceiling and enhanced support mechanisms. However, the mission remains dependent on voluntary contributions of personnel, equipment, and funding from member states.

Against this backdrop, Guterres' remarks served as both a call to action and a warning. Security observers note that if pledged resources fail to materialize, the GSF could face many of the same challenges that limited the effectiveness of its predecessor. The Secretary-General emphasized that restoring security in Haiti requires more than political support—it requires countries to deliver the personnel, equipment, funding, and logistical assistance they have committed to provide.

Prime Minister Fils-Aimé thanked the United Nations and the international community for their continued support and highlighted recent gains achieved through joint security operations targeting armed groups. He reiterated the government's commitment to restoring state authority throughout the country and creating a secure environment that would allow democratic institutions to function effectively.

Both sides expressed a desire to strengthen cooperation in support of peace, stability, and long-term development.

Guterres' visit comes at a critical moment as Haitian authorities continue efforts to improve security conditions and advance plans for a return to constitutional governance. The Secretary-General's visit also included discussions regarding ongoing international support for Haitian security forces and the continued implementation of Security Council Resolution 2793.

However, some political actors remain skeptical about the prospect of holding credible elections in the near term, arguing that persistent insecurity and political tensions continue to present significant obstacles. Despite differing views on the timeline for elections, both Haitian officials and international partners agree that lasting security and institutional stability remain essential for Haiti's democratic future.

The Secretary-General's message was clear: Haiti's security progress will ultimately depend not only on the determination of Haitian security forces, but also on whether the international community fulfills the commitments it has already made.

More than 5,000 displaced as fighting intensifies in cité soleil

More than 5,000 residents have been displaced following a new outbreak of armed violence in the commune of Cité Soleil, according to the latest figures released by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The organization reported that approximately 89 percent of those displaced have sought refuge in eight temporary shelter sites, most of which are located within Cité Soleil itself. The remaining displaced residents have been accommodated by host families or have relocated to nearby communities.

The latest displacement crisis follows renewed clashes between rival armed groups operating in several neighborhoods of Cité Soleil. The violence has affected areas including Wharf Jérémie, Fort Dimanche, Bélekou, and nearby sectors where competing gangs continue to battle for territorial control and influence.

The security situation remains volatile, with armed confrontations, road blockages, and intermittent exchanges of gunfire continuing to disrupt daily life. Armed violence has severely restricted movement within affected communities and further strained already limited humanitarian resources.

The recent clashes are part of a broader conflict that has been unfolding in Cité Soleil for several weeks. Since mid-June, reports have indicated intense fighting between rival factions operating in the Wharf Jérémie and Bélekou sectors. The violence reportedly escalated following disputes over territorial control, extortion revenues, and access routes used by armed groups.

The conflict intensified after a series of attacks and retaliatory actions between competing gangs, leading to significant civilian displacement and prompting concerns about access to humanitarian assistance. In some areas, residents have reported being trapped in their neighborhoods due to continuous gunfire and insecurity.

On June 15, local human rights organizations reported that an attack on a group of civilians celebrating Haiti's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the Bélekou area resulted in numerous casualties and disappearances. The incident further heightened tensions and contributed to additional population movements within the commune.

At the same time, the Haitian National Police has intensified operations in Cité Soleil in an effort to regain control of contested areas and disrupt gang activities. In recent days, specialized police units supported by armored vehicles have conducted operations in Bélekou and surrounding neighborhoods, where heavy gunfire has been reported. Security sources indicate that the operations are aimed at dismantling gang strongholds, restoring freedom of movement, and preventing armed groups from expanding their control over strategic sectors of the commune.

The latest displacement comes on top of an already severe humanitarian crisis. According to IOM data, nearly 18,000 people were displaced from Cité Soleil between March and May 2026 as a result of repeated clashes between armed groups. Many families have now been forced to flee multiple times, often leaving behind homes, livelihoods, and personal belongings.

Humanitarian organizations warn that shelter sites and host communities are struggling to absorb the growing number of displaced persons. Access to clean water, food, healthcare, and sanitation services remains limited in many locations.

While police operations continue, authorities have not released official casualty figures related to either the ongoing security operations or the latest round of gang fighting. The situation remains highly fluid, and humanitarian agencies warn that additional displacement is possible if violence continues in the days ahead.

The fighting in Cité Soleil remains one of the most significant security and humanitarian challenges facing the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area, underscoring the difficulties authorities face in restoring stability to some of Haiti's most densely populated and gang-affected neighborhoods.

Chile launches special task force as investigation expands into missing Haitian minors

Chilean authorities have launched a highlevel task force to locate hundreds of Haitian minors whose whereabouts remain unconfirmed following their arrival in Chile through family reunification programs, as an ongoing investigation continues to examine possible administrative failures and potential human trafficking concerns.

The case has attracted growing attention following reports that Chilean authorities are attempting to account for more than 200 Haitian children who entered the country between 2023 and 2025. Investigators are examining whether weaknesses in immigration oversight, documentation verification, and child protection procedures allowed minors to enter the country without adequate follow-up or monitoring.

At the center of the investigation is Caribbean Sun charter flight WAL-801, which reportedly departed Port-au-Prince on October 15, 2025, carrying nearly 150 passengers bound for Santiago, Chile. According to Chilean media reports, approximately 124 of those passengers were Haitian children and adolescents.

Investigators are reviewing allegations that the aircraft deviated from its originally approved flight plan and made a stop in Lima, Peru, before continuing to Chile. Reports submitted to Chile's Office of the Comptroller General allege that some minors may have been transferred to a second aircraft operating under the same flight designation. Authorities have not publicly explained the purpose of the reported transfer or whether all required authorizations were obtained.

The investigation intensified after officials determined that the number of children arriving in Santiago did not match the number originally listed on portions of the flight documentation reviewed by investigators. Chilean authorities have acknowledged difficulties in reconstructing a complete record of the movements and custodial arrangements of some minors following their arrival.

A preliminary review by Chile's Comptroller General identified several weaknesses within the country's migration oversight system, including incomplete databases, inconsistent verification of family relationships, limited monitoring of accompanying adults, and insufficient mechanisms to track the status of minors after arrival.

In response, President José Antonio Kast ordered the creation of a special interagency task force bringing together the Ministry of the Interior, the National Migration Service, law enforcement agencies, child protection authorities, and prosecutors. Chilean officials say the group's immediate objective is to determine the current location and welfare of the affected children while supporting the ongoing judicial investigation.

The case has also raised significant questions in Haiti, where authorities have yet to publicly address allegations surrounding the departure of large numbers of minors on charter flights. Investigators and observers have questioned what procedures were followed to verify parental authorizations, authenticate civil documents, confirm the identities of accompanying adults, and coordinate with child welfare and immigration authorities before departure.

The Haitian Institute of Social Welfare and Research (IBESR), the Directorate of Immigration and Emigration (DIE), and other government entities have not publicly detailed what oversight mechanisms were applied to the departures currently under review.

Several sources familiar with the matter have suggested that concerns regarding the movement of Haitian minors through family reunification programs were raised as early as 2023. If confirmed, investigators will likely seek to determine whether earlier warnings were missed or whether institutional shortcomings prevented authorities from identifying potential irregularities sooner.

Chilean prosecutors have emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and that no conclusions have been reached regarding criminal responsibility. Authorities are examining whether the irregularities resulted from administrative failures, inadequate oversight, document fraud, or the possible exploitation of legal migration pathways by organized networks.

As investigators in Chile continue to reconstruct the movements of the children involved, one of the central questions remains unanswered: how many Haitian minors entered Chile through these programs, where are they today, and were all legal safeguards designed to protect them properly enforced throughout the process.

The outcome of the investigation could have significant implications for migration oversight, international child protection procedures, and future family reunification programs involving vulnerable populations from Haiti and other countries.

Escalating violence forces msf to suspend maternity services in cité soleil

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has suspended operations at the Isaïe Jeanty maternity hospital in Cité Soleil after days of intense fighting between armed groups in the neighborhoods of Bélekou, FortDimanche, and Wharf Jérémie. The violence, which intensified on June 13, left the facility caught in the crossfire, with bullets striking the hospital and creating dangerous conditions for both patients and medical staff.

MSF reported that more than 100 civilians, primarily women and children fleeing the violence, sought refuge at the maternity hospital during the clashes. Medical teams continued providing emergency care under increasingly difficult conditions, including treating a woman injured by a stray bullet and assisting several pregnant women who managed to reach the facility despite the insecurity. However, the worsening security environment eventually forced the organization to evacuate staff and halt operations on June 19.

The closure represents a major setback for healthcare access in Cité Soleil, a densely populated area of approximately 300,000 residents where medical services are already extremely limited. The maternity hospital provided critical sexual and reproductive healthcare services to women who often have few alternatives. Humanitarian officials warn that many women may now be forced to give birth at home under unsafe conditions, increasing the risk of complications for both mothers and newborns.

MSF stated that the continued deterioration of security conditions is placing the entire local healthcare system at risk. The organization called on all armed actors to respect civilians and protect medical facilities, emphasizing that healthcare workers must be able to safely reach and treat vulnerable populations affected by the ongoing violence.

Debate continues over major government contracts and resource agreements in Haiti

Several major contracts signed by the Haitian government in recent months have generated debate among political observers, civil society organizations, and members of the public regarding transparency, national sovereignty, and the role of foreign firms in key sectors of the country.

Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé's administration has stated that its priorities remain restoring security, strengthening state institutions, improving border management, and creating conditions for future elections. However, agreements involving security services, border modernization, prison construction, and mineral exploration have drawn increased scrutiny.

Among the most discussed contracts are a reported $52 million border security and management agreement with Windward Wyoming LLC, an $85 million prison construction project involving Metric Correctional Facility S.A., and a long-term customs and border modernization agreement awarded to an Evergreen-led consortium focused on improving customs collection, anti-smuggling efforts, and border controls.

Particular attention has focused on reports linking some contractors to international security entrepreneur Erik Prince, founder of Blackwater and chairman of Vectus Global. While media reports and advocacy groups have alleged connections between certain firms and Prince-affiliated entities, the exact nature of those relationships has not been fully detailed in publicly available government documents.

Supporters of the contracts argue that Haiti's ongoing security crisis, declining customs revenues, and limited state capacity require specialized expertise, technology, and investment that cannot be developed quickly through government resources alone. They contend that modern border security systems, enhanced customs enforcement, improved detention infrastructure, and advanced surveillance capabilities could help combat arms trafficking, organized crime, smuggling networks, and revenue losses while strengthening government institutions.

Advocates also note that Erik Prince and companies associated with him have extensive experience operating in high-risk environments and providing aviation, logistics, intelligence, and security support services. They argue that Haiti's current challenges require capabilities that are not readily available within existing state institutions.

Critics, however, have questioned the financial terms, duration, and oversight mechanisms associated with the agreements. Others have raised concerns about the involvement of private foreign contractors in sensitive national security functions and have called for greater transparency regarding the contracts and their implementation.

Questions have also emerged regarding mining, and mineral exploration permits reportedly published in the official gazette, Le Moniteur. Some observers have expressed concern about the scale of exploration rights granted to foreign companies and the potential long-term implications for Haiti's natural resources. Others argue that properly regulated resource development could attract investment, create jobs, and generate future government revenue.

The debate reflects broader governance challenges during Haiti's transition period. With no functioning elected parliament currently in place, some groups have called for additional oversight and public consultation on major government decisions, while others argue that urgent security and economic realities require rapid action by the executive branch.

As Haiti continues to confront significant security, economic, and humanitarian challenges, the success or failure of these agreements will likely be judged by their ability to improve security, strengthen state institutions, increase government revenue, and deliver measurable benefits to the Haitian people.

University students demand reopening of Haiti’s general hospital during protest in port-au-prince

Students from the Medical School and Biomedical Sciences Student Committee of the State University of Haiti (MP/EBMOUEH) organized a peaceful march on June 22 to call for the temporary relocation and reopening of the State University Hospital of Haiti (HUEH), commonly known as the General Hospital.

According to organizers, the demonstration sought to draw attention to the prolonged closure of the country's largest public teaching hospital, which has been largely inaccessible for more than two years due to ongoing insecurity in downtown Port-au-Prince. Students argued that the closure has severely affected millions of Haitians who depend on public healthcare services while also disrupting the education and clinical training of medical, nursing, and other healthcare students.

The march began peacefully but was reportedly interrupted when Haitian National Police officers dispersed demonstrators using tear gas. No official explanation for the intervention was immediately available. Organizers stated that the protest was intended to highlight what they described as insufficient government action to restore access to one of Haiti's most important healthcare institutions.

The continued closure of HUEH has become a symbol of the broader challenges facing Haiti's healthcare system. Once considered the country's principal referral hospital and primary teaching facility for future doctors and nurses, the hospital has been largely unable to operate due to insecurity, gang violence, and repeated disruptions in the downtown area. The closure has forced patients to seek treatment at already overcrowded facilities elsewhere in the capital.0

Healthcare professionals and medical students have repeatedly warned that the loss of HUEH has weakened both medical education and the delivery of specialized healthcare services nationwide. The hospital traditionally served as a major training center for physicians, nurses, and medical specialists while providing care to thousands of patients each year.

Students participating in the march called on Haitian authorities to identify a temporary location where HUEH's services and academic programs can fully resume until conditions allow for a return to its historic downtown campus. They argue that restoring access to healthcare and medical education should remain a national priority as Haiti continues to confront a complex security and humanitarian crisis.

Caribbean authorities intercept multiple Haitian migrant vessels amid ongoing regional migration surge

Caribbean authorities continue to respond to irregular maritime migration from Haiti following multiple vessel interceptions reported across the region in recent weeks.

The latest incident occurred on June 22 when Jamaican authorities detained 17 Haitian migrants after they arrived by boat in the Passley Gardens area of Portland Parish on Jamaica's northeastern coast. According to Jamaican police, the group consisted of 10 adult men, 4 adult women, and 3 children. Residents alerted authorities after spotting the vessel, and the migrants were transported to the Port Antonio Police Station for medical screening and immigration processing. Police have launched an investigation and are also attempting to determine whether additional migrants may have left the area before law enforcement arrived.

The Jamaican arrival follows another recent incident in the Turks and Caicos Islands, where authorities intercepted a vessel carrying approximately 40 Haitian migrants as it approached Providenciales. The migrants were taken into custody and transferred to immigration authorities for processing.

Earlier this month, one of the largest maritime interdictions reported in the region this year occurred when a joint operation involving the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force intercepted an overloaded vessel carrying approximately 240 people claiming Haitian nationality. Authorities reported that the vessel was taking on water and was in danger of sinking approximately 15 miles south of the Turks and Caicos Islands. All passengers were safely removed and transferred to local authorities.

Regional officials continue to warn that many migrant voyages are conducted aboard overcrowded and poorly equipped vessels that pose significant risks to passengers. The recent interdictions come as Haiti continues to face severe security, economic, and humanitarian challenges, including widespread gang violence, displacement, and deteriorating living conditions that have contributed to increased migration throughout the Caribbean. Authorities in Jamaica, the Turks and Caicos Islands, The Bahamas, and the United States have all reported continued maritime migration activity involving Haitian nationals during 2026.

The series of interceptions underscores the ongoing regional impact of Haiti's crisis and the growing challenge facing Caribbean governments tasked with balancing border security, humanitarian concerns, and immigration enforcement as maritime migration continues across the region.

Police disperse demonstration by displaced residents seeking return to mirebalais and saut-d’eau

Haitian National Police (HNP) officers dispersed a demonstration Monday organized by displaced residents from Mirebalais and Saut-d’Eau who were attempting to march along National Route 3 to demand the liberation of their communities from gang control.

The protesters, many of whom had been displaced for more than a year, gathered near the Péligre area before beginning their planned movement toward Mirebalais. According to participants, the march was intended to draw attention to the continued occupation of the two communes by armed groups, including the Taliban gang led by Jeff Gwo Lwa and elements of the 400 Mawozo gang led by Lanmò San Jou.

Witnesses reported that the demonstration was halted by police officers near the locality of Domond in the commune of Boucan-Carré. According to several accounts from the scene, officers used tear gas to disperse the crowd, and reports from participants alleged that live rounds were also fired during the operation. The claims regarding the use of live ammunition have not been independently confirmed by authorities.

The intervention forced many of the demonstrators to abandon the march and return to their points of departure amid confusion and heightened tensions. No official information regarding injuries or arrests had been released at the time of publication.

Participants said the demonstration was intended to be peaceful and aimed at urging the government to take stronger action to restore security and allow displaced families to return home. “We simply wanted our voices to be heard and to ask the government to help us return to our communities,” one displaced resident reportedly said following the incident.

The protest highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting residents of Mirebalais and Saut-d’Eau. Thousands of families who fled armed violence following gang incursions into the region continue to live in temporary and often difficult conditions throughout Haiti’s Centre Department.

Despite repeated calls from displaced residents and local leaders, large portions of both communes remain under the influence of armed groups. The situation has contributed to continued displacement, economic disruption, and limited access to essential services.

As of Monday evening, Haitian authorities had not publicly explained the reasons for preventing the march or dispersing the demonstrators.