Canada announces sanctions against Haitian gang leaders

HAMILTON, Canada

Canada announced Friday that it imposed sanctions on three gang leaders in Haiti for threatening country's peace and security, as well as contributing to "acts of gross and systematic human rights violations."

"Canada is imposing additional sanctions under the Special Economic Measures (Haiti) Regulations to address the escalating gang violence in Haiti, which continues to have devastating effects on the Haitian population," according to a statement by Foreign Ministry.

The sanctions target three Haitian gang leaders: Luckson Elan, Gabriel Jean-Pierre, and Ferdens Tilus.

Describing the individuals as "criminal gang leaders," sanctions were imposed for their "activities that have undermined the peace, security and stability of Haiti and that have contributed to acts of gross and systematic human rights violations in Haiti."

Pledging to work with international partners and Haitian authorities to find solution to the ongoing crisis, Canada aims to target "those who support violence and insecurity in Haiti" through its sanctions.

The statement recalled that Canada has "committed more than $400 million in international assistance funding to Haiti" since 2022.

"Canada’s $400 million in international assistance funding includes an investment of $80.5 million, announced by Minister Joly in February 2024, to support the Multinational Security Support Mission to Haiti, and $100 million in support of the Haitian National Police," it read.

Haiti has been struggling with gang violence and political instability for years. The situation has worsened in recent months, with kidnappings, killings, armed robberies and other violent crimes becoming commonplace.

Haiti has called for international assistance to help restore order and security.