US federal prosecutors have charged Jimmy Cherizier, the notorious Haitian gang leader known as “Barbecue,” who heads an alliance of gangs in Port-au-Prince. Authorities allege that Cherizier and Bazile Richardson, a US citizen, raised funds from the Haitian community in the US to support gang activities, violating US sanctions.
Cherizier, a former police officer, leads the gang named Viv Ansanm (Live Together). The US is offering a $5 million reward for information leading to his capture. His group has been linked to numerous violent crimes, including murders and kidnappings.
US Attorney Jeanine Pirro highlighted the urgency of Cherizier’s arrest, stating, “He’s a gang leader responsible for heinous human rights abuses.” This includes suspected involvement in the 2018 La Saline massacre, where dozens died and many homes were destroyed.
Richardson, who was taken into custody in Texas, reportedly helped finance gang operations, contributing to the ongoing security crisis in Haiti. Assistant US Attorney General John Eisenberg emphasized that the US is committed to holding accountable those who fund violence and instability in Haiti.
In May, the US designated Viv Ansanm as a foreign terrorist organization, as it has held significant control over the capital since 2020. The group also declared itself a political party, further complicating the situation. Cherizier faces sanctions from multiple countries, including the UN and Canada, for his role in escalating violence.
Haiti, the poorest nation in the Americas, has been in turmoil since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021. The country now faces a severe humanitarian crisis, with over 5.7 million people experiencing acute food insecurity, according to UN estimates.
Recent attempts by a UN-backed Kenyan-led security force to regain control of Port-au-Prince have largely failed. Meanwhile, the collapse of law and order has devastated health services, exacerbating the food security crisis. As violence continues, many civilians live in fear, feeling trapped between gang power and an ineffective government.
Cherizier remains influential, protected by his gang, making his arrest challenging. The international community watches closely as the situation in Haiti unfolds, underscoring the urgent need for effective solutions to restore stability.
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