2026-02-07

The Haiti National Police deployed exceptional security apparatus in Port-au-Prince on February 6-7 2026 including first operational use of three new tracked armored vehicles donated by South Korea through bilateral cooperation. PNH sealed all access routes around Villa d'Accueil and Primature with multiple armored vehicles deployed along Delmas and downtown axes and strategic checkpoints reinforced at all routes leading to sensitive institutional sites. The deployment objective was to prevent any act of violence sabotage or attempted takeover in a context where heavily armed gangs continue to exert constant pressure on multiple neighborhoods. The South Korean armored vehicles represent significant capability enhancement for PNH providing protected mobility in high-threat urban environments. Activities slowed significantly in Port-au-Prince on February 6 with reduced school attendance and public transportation amid uncertainty about the transition. The security perimeter extended beyond immediate government buildings to include major thoroughfares and gang territorial boundaries. PNH maintained visible presence with armored patrols throughout transition day sending message of state authority despite gang control of approximately 90 percent of the capital. The deployment demonstrated operational capacity and coordination suggesting improved PNH capabilities compared to previous major security operations. No major incidents occurred during the transition period indicating either successful deterrence or gang strategic decision not to test security apparatus during high-profile event. The DCPJ Central Directorate of the Judicial Police issued arrest warrants against Youri Ralph Chevry Interim Executive Agent of Port-au-Prince Arnel Belizaire former Deputy of Delmas Tabarre and Smith Joseph charged with terrorism financing conspiracy against state security February 07, 2026 criminal association and money laundering. The warrants signal continued law enforcement action against political and economic actors allegedly supporting gang operations. The timing immediately before transition suggests either completion of ongoing investigations or political pressure to demonstrate state capacity ahead of CPT dissolution. The targets include municipal and legislative figures indicating potential corruption network extending into institutional structures.