A joint operation by the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission and the Haitian National Police has restored calm in the Dofunor area, over 198 kilometres north of Port-au-Prince, after days of disruption by armed gangs.
The crackdown, launched following a tip-off, saw security forces ambush and overpower the gangs that had been terrorizing rice farmers and blocking access to vital food stores. The operation brought much-needed relief to the community, with farmers finally able to reclaim their rice supplies stored in local warehouses.
Under heavy security escort, residents of Dofunor and the surrounding Petit Rivière township turned out in large numbers to retrieve their rice. Patrols were also maintained across key routes linking Palmiste, Laverdure, Canal, and the cemetery, ensuring safe passage for locals who had long feared gang violence.
However, retreating gang members attempted to frustrate the security operation by digging deep trenches to slow police advances and by destroying a key bridge at Palmiste. Despite these setbacks, MSS Commander Godfrey Otunge reassured the community that the route would be reopened soon.
“Heavy equipment is already being deployed to clear obstacles and restore free movement so that residents can once again reach their farms and homes,” Otunge said.
In his address, the MSS commander praised the resilience of the people of Petite Rivière and the wider Artibonite region, noting their cooperation was vital in restoring peace. He reaffirmed the mission’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks and urged residents to continue supporting security efforts.
“Very soon we will be talking about a new Haiti, and the issues we are talking about are very clear—that the MSS mission is possible. MSS is the only hope for the Haitian people,” Otunge declared.
Looking ahead, Otunge revealed plans to reinforce peaceful regions with specialized security units to prevent the expansion of gang territories. He stressed that while the fight against armed groups would continue, stabilizing and protecting quieter areas was equally crucial for Haiti’s recovery.
