New force to confront gangs in Haiti begins operations

Port-au-Prince.- The Gang Suppression Force (GSF) is already in action in Haiti, analyzing the operational management modes of the transition and operational continuity, reported this Wednesday the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), which has come to an end in the Caribbean country where more than 4,000 homicides occurred in the first half of the year amid a delicate crisis.

On September 30th, the UN Security Council approved a US resolution for the deployment in the Caribbean country of the GSF, which replaces the MSS, deployed last year under the leadership of Kenya without achieving outstanding results.

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As part of this transition, the GSF “is updating the old social media accounts, communication channels, logos, flags and badges of the MSS to reflect its new identity and mandate,” noted a statement from the MSS. Although this process may take time, “the flow of information to the public and partners will continue without obstacles, with the same level of transparency, commitment and responsiveness,” he assured. The new force continues to collaborate closely with the Haitian National Police (HNP) and the Haitian Armed Forces (FAd’H), particularly through recent logistical operations in the Artibonite region, the information added. Within the framework of the GSF, the Government of Canada recently delivered 20 additional armored personnel carriers, five of which have already been deployed in the Artibonite region. “These reinforcements illustrate the GSF’s determination, within the framework of its strengthened mandate, to restructure the security environment and improve operational effectiveness throughout the country,” the statement continued. While the GSF continues to receive additional material and logistical support from its international partners and stakeholders, it reaffirmed “its unwavering commitment to protect Haitian communities and promote lasting peace and enhanced national security.” The GSF, which has the backing of the Haitian government, will have up to a maximum of 5,500 police or military personnel, assisted by 50 civilians, and will have an initial mandate of 12 months.