On Thursday, August 6, 2026, as part of the reinforcement of security measures in areas affected by armed group activities, vehicles, tactical equipment, heavy machinery, and a contingent of Sri Lankan soldiers from the Gang Supression Force (GSF) arrived in the port of Gonaïves.

For several months, residents of the Artibonite region have been denouncing the resurgence of violence and the expansion of gangs that impose their control over several areas, disrupting economic and social activities.

The residents of Gonaïves primarily expect the deployed forces to be able to restore lasting security and allow the population to resume normal life and activities. Clearing and securing strategic roads and ensuring the free movement of goods and people are among the population's main expectations.

These reinforcements are intended to support the Haitian National Police (PNH) in security missions and operations aimed at combating armed groups and terrorists present in the department. This operation poses a challenge for the GSF in a department considered one of the country's main security hotspots.

SL/ iciHaiti