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The Bahamian government is gearing up to play an active role in the multinational mission to support security in Haiti, with operations expected to begin by the end of December, according to The Tribune. Bahamian Minister of National Security Wayne Munroe confirmed the plans during a luncheon with local pastors at the Fox Hill Community Center on December 10, 2024.
Minister Munroe announced that two Bahamian vessels, the HMBS Bahamas and the HMBS Nassau, will be deployed to patrol Haiti’s offshore waters by December 22. Each ship will carry a crew of 60 and will operate in the region for four to six weeks. Their mission is to curb the flow of illegal firearms into Haiti, prevent migrants from leaving the country, and combat maritime smuggling.
Munroe emphasized the strategic importance of securing Haiti’s waters, which have become a transit point for illicit activities.
The announcement comes two months after six Royal Bahamas Defence Force soldiers were sent to Port-au-Prince in October to coordinate a larger deployment of approximately 100 Bahamian troops under the Multinational Security Support (MMAS) mission. However, logistical challenges have delayed the deployment of these additional soldiers, hampering efforts to reinforce Haiti’s security forces against escalating gang violence.
The MMAS mission has been facing manpower shortages, complicating its ability to meet its security objectives.
Haiti’s ongoing security crisis has prompted the international community to send assistance, with the Bahamas among the key contributors. The deployment of naval assets aims to strengthen regional security and provide critical support in intercepting illegal activities at sea.
While the mission’s full deployment remains pending, the Bahamian government’s upcoming maritime operations highlight its commitment to stabilizing Haiti and the broader Caribbean region.
