Effective immediately, Canada has enacted sanctions against three prominent Haitian gang leaders accused of orchestrating violent crimes and human rights abuses that threaten Haiti’s peace, security, and stability.
Canadian Measures Against Haitian Gang Leaders
Under the Special Economic Measures (Haiti) Regulations, these sanctions include a prohibition on dealings with the listed individuals, effectively freezing any assets they may hold within Canada. Furthermore, these individuals are now inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
The regulations specify the detailed prohibitions, targeting:
- Luckson Elan, leader of the Gran Grif gang
- Gabriel Jean-Pierre, leader of the Nan Brooklyn gang and the G-Pèp alliance
- Ferdens Tilus, leader of the Kokorat San Ras gang
Gang Violence in Haiti
Haiti has been plagued by escalating gang violence, severely impacting the nation’s security and social stability. Gangs have taken control of large areas in Port-au-Prince and other regions, engaging in extortion, kidnappings, and brutal attacks against civilians. The violence has caused significant displacement, with thousands of residents forced to flee their homes. Humanitarian efforts have been hindered, exacerbating the crisis and contributing to a deteriorating human rights situation.
Overview of the Targeted Haitian Gangs
Gran Grif Gang: Led by Luckson Elan, Gran Grif is notorious for its violent territorial disputes and criminal enterprises, including kidnapping for ransom, which have instilled fear in local communities.
Nan Brooklyn Gang: Under Gabriel Jean-Pierre’s leadership, the Nan Brooklyn gang, allied with the G-Pèp coalition, has been involved in extensive criminal activities, including drug trafficking and violent assaults on rival gangs and civilians alike.
Kokorat San Ras Gang: Ferdens Tilus heads the Kokorat San Ras gang, known for its ruthless enforcement of control over local populations through intimidation, violence, and extortion.
Context and Implications
The Canadian government’s decision to impose sanctions is part of a broader international effort to curtail the influence of criminal organizations destabilizing Haiti. These measures are intended to hold gang leaders accountable for their actions and disrupt their operations by cutting off financial resources and mobility.
Conclusion
Canada’s imposition of sanctions on these Haitian gang leaders marks a significant step in addressing the grave human rights violations and criminal activities perpetuated by these gangs. By freezing assets and restricting entry, Canada aims to contribute to restoring peace and security in Haiti. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with hopes that such measures will lead to meaningful change and support for the Haitian people in their pursuit of stability and justice.
Other Recent Sanctions
Recently Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly, has declared new sanctions under the Special Economic Measures (Russia) Regulations. This move aligns with international allies and was announced during the G7 Summit in Italy, which took place from June 13 to 15, 2024.