The United States government has delivered 20 new armoured vehicles to Haiti to strengthen anti-gang operations and improve the country’s security situation. The delivery, made through the US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, aims to boost the capabilities of the Gang Suppression Force (GSF) and the Haitian National Police (HNP).
In a statement on Wednesday, October 8, the US government said the vehicles would help the GSF and HNP counter the violent gangs that continue to terrorize communities across Haiti. “These vehicles will strengthen the capacity of the GSF and Haitian National Police (HNP) to counter the deadly gangs who are terrorising the people of Haiti and reaffirm US commitment to Haiti’s security,” the statement read.
The GSF is a newly established international security force that replaced the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission. Despite the structural changes, Kenyan police officers remain an integral part of the GSF. The arrival of the armoured vehicles is expected to significantly improve their mobility and safety in gang-dominated areas.
The delivery comes just weeks after Kenyan President William Ruto raised concerns about the safety and operational challenges facing the police contingent in Haiti. Speaking during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 22, Ruto noted that the officers had been forced to use dilapidated, second-hand vehicles during patrols and combat missions.
“It was expected that there would be force multipliers such as the armoured personnel carriers and logistical support to make the mission successful,” Ruto said, emphasizing the need for better equipment to protect the officers.
The latest US support marks a significant step toward stabilizing Haiti, which has struggled with escalating gang violence and political instability. The armoured vehicles are expected to enhance the troops’ firepower and bolster efforts to restore order in the Caribbean nation.
