- Security forces struck three houses linked to gang leader Jimmy Cherizier
- Explosions were reported in Port-au-Prince, with heavy damage seen
- Police confirmed a joint operation involving local and foreign support
Haitian security agencies on Wednesday carried out airstrikes on three homes connected to notorious gang figure Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier, according to local media reports.
Video clips shared online showed a powerful blast in Port-au-Prince, flattening at least one building and damaging nearby homes as thick smoke rose into the sky. Authorities had not confirmed whether anyone was hurt, killed, or taken into custody during the operation.
Soon after the explosions, Gazette Haiti reported that police officers moved into the targeted area and seized equipment from the damaged properties.
Earlier in the day, Haiti’s National Police announced they were conducting a security operation in Delmas 6, an area long associated with armed groups loyal to Cherizier.
Cherizier, 48, is a former police officer who later became one of Haiti’s most feared gang leaders. He now heads Viv Ansanm, a powerful alliance that brings together most of the criminal gangs operating in the capital.
The coalition has been at the center of ongoing violent clashes with state security forces, further weakening control in Port-au-Prince.
Police said the operation involved multiple forces, including the Haitian army, the UN-backed Gang Suppression Force, the prime minister’s special task unit, and a private security firm.
The task force has reportedly used explosive drones for nearly a year. The drone program has received support from Vectus Global, a company led by Erik Prince, the founder of Blackwater, which has been assisting the Haitian government since early last year.
Cherizier was among the first Haitian gang leaders to face United Nations sanctions. The United States has also placed a $5 million reward for information leading to his capture or arrest.
He is accused of directing several deadly attacks around the capital. Despite this, Cherizier has tried to present himself as a fighter against the political elite and has even spoken about turning Viv Ansanm into a political movement.
The security raid comes just weeks before February 7, when the mandate of Haiti’s transitional government is set to expire. So far, no clear plan has been announced on how the country will move forward politically.
As pressure grows both on the streets and within government, Wednesday’s operation signals a renewed push by authorities to confront gang power amid deep national uncertainty.
