France calls for deployment of gang suppression force and sanctions against Haiti gang supporters

France reiterated its support on Tuesday, October 20, for international efforts to address Haiti’s security crisis, calling on the United Nations Security Council to focus on three priorities: facilitating the deployment of the Gang Suppression Force (GSF), sanctioning those who support criminal gangs, and strengthening Haiti’s judicial and prison systems.

The position was expressed by France’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in a post on X, reaffirming the French government’s commitment to helping strengthen Haiti’s institutional capabilities.

“The United Nations Security Council’s strategy in Haiti must enable the deployment of the GSF, sanction those who support gangs, and strengthen the judicial and prison systems,” the French mission said.

France added that it remains committed to supporting Haiti as the country works to strengthen its capabilities and fulfill its responsibilities amid continuing challenges in regaining control of territories affected by armed violence.

The statement emphasized not only the security response but also the institutions responsible for investigating, prosecuting and punishing crimes, as well as the prison system, which remains an essential component of Haiti’s response to criminal organizations.

Statement follows ambush targeting international force

France’s statement came two days after an ambush against GSF personnel in Santo, an area of Croix-des-Bouquets on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince. Four Salvadoran soldiers remained missing following the attack, according to reports published Tuesday by media outlets and El Salvador’s Armed Forces.

The attack occurred on Sunday, October 18, when armed men opened fire on a vehicle belonging to the international force, raising renewed concerns about the security conditions in which the mission operates and the risks faced by its personnel.

On Monday, October 19, the United Nations secretary-general’s special representative for Haiti, Carlos Ruiz Massieu, expressed concern over the attack against the Salvadoran personnel before the Security Council and voiced hope for a favorable resolution.

Mission mandate extended

On September 29, the Security Council adopted Resolution 2829, extending the Gang Suppression Force’s mandate for six months, through March 31, 2027.

The resolution received 12 votes in favor, while China, Russia and Pakistan abstained.