Travel Warnings and Rising Kidnappings in Port-au-Prince
As the number of kidnappings for ransom escalates in Port-au-Prince, where kidnappers have been impersonating police officers, the U.S. embassy has issued new travel restrictions and safety warnings for Americans. They strongly advise against driving alone.
The embassy’s report indicates a particular increase in kidnappings, especially in the Delmas area, with some criminals masquerading as law enforcement officials during these incidents.
U.S. officials are recommending that Americans limit non-essential travel, avoid going out alone, and inform someone about their travel plans, including when they expect to return. The advisory emphasizes, “Do not drive alone,” underlining that Haiti remains under a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” designation from the State Department, which is the highest advisory level.
Weeks earlier, the U.S. Embassy had warned citizens about ongoing security operations in both the northern and southern parts of Port-au-Prince due to reports of heavy gunfire. As a result, officials have suspended all travel and advised Americans in the area to stay vigilant and follow local news for updates.
According to the State Department and the United Nations Integration Office in Haiti, armed groups have established control over much of Port-au-Prince and its surroundings. The area of Croix-des-Bouquets, mentioned in recent warnings, has been a long-standing base for the notorious 400 Mawozo gang.
Reflecting on the rising threat, Jolie Jarmin, a resident from Croix-des-Bouquets, received a life sentence last December for her involvement in the 2021 kidnapping of 16 American citizens, including five children, who were returning from an orphanage when they were taken hostage.
This alert underlines the escalating security situation in Port-au-Prince, where heavily armed gangs dominate large areas and ransom kidnappings have become a significant source of income for these criminal enterprises. Historically, kidnappings in Haiti have targeted business owners, aid workers, and foreigners, who are seen as likely to pay ransoms.
