US imposes visa restrictions on criminally aligned Haitians as turmoil deepens
/ Our Today
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Taking measures to tackle the ongoing issue of criminal activities in Haiti, the United States has imposed visa restrictions on Haitians involved in street gangs and other criminal organisations.
The US says these measures are necessary to support the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country by continuing to promote accountability for individuals who foment violence, corruption, and instability.
US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said: “the United States remains deeply concerned by the ongoing lawlessness associated with armed gangs. We condemn in the strongest terms the violent gang activity that led to the death of 14 members of the Haitian National Police in January.”
Blinken indicated further that the US State Department has designated an additional five individuals and seven family members as subject to visa restrictions under the Immigration and Nationality Act.
“This policy impacts Haitian officials and other individuals involved in the operation of street gangs and criminal organisations that have threatened the livelihoods of the Haitian people and are blocking life-saving humanitarian support. This action sends a clear message of our continued commitment to root out corruption and impact the behaviour of bad actors whose influence underpins the lawlessness in Haiti,” he stated.
According to Blinken, Washington continues to identify individuals and their immediate family members who may be subject to visa restrictions under this policy.
“Our actions today demonstrate that there are consequences for those instigating violence and unrest in the country,” he said.
Blinken also noted the State Department has also designated three Haitian officials, including Joseph Lambert and Rommel Bell, under another visa restriction authority.
“We continue to support the citizens, organizations and public servants in Haiti who are committed to generating hope and opportunity for a better future in their nation,” Blinken said.
Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry has called on the international community, “especially those countries that can help” to support efforts to deal with the ongoing socioeconomic and political situation in his country.
Canada, similar to the US, has pledged to provide support to Haiti to tackle the security issue on the island.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Thursday (February 16) that Canada will deploy two Royal Canadian Navy Kingston-class vessels to Haiti in light of the worsening security crisis in the country.
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