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A contingent of 83 security officers from Guatemala and El Salvador arrived in Port-au-Prince on Friday as part of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM). The deployment aims to reinforce efforts to restore stability and security in Haiti, a country grappling with severe gang violence.
Deputy spokesperson for Haiti’s National Police, Lionel Lazarre, confirmed the arrival, detailing the composition of the group: 75 Guatemalan and 8 Salvadoran officers. The Salvadoran officers are reportedly preparing for the arrival of a larger contingent in the coming days.
This marks an increase in international support under the MSSM, which was authorized by the United Nations in September through Resolution 2751. The mission, initially led by Kenya, now includes personnel from five countries: Kenya, Jamaica, Belize, Guatemala, and El Salvador.
Haitian leaders, including transitional President Leslie Voltaire, Prime Minister Didier Fils Aimé, and National Police Director Rameau Normil, were present at the Port-au-Prince airport to welcome the troops. U.S. Ambassador Dennis B. Hankins also attended the arrival, signaling international backing for the mission.
The Guatemalan and Salvadoran forces traveled aboard a U.S. military aircraft, further reflecting the collaboration among nations to address Haiti’s pressing security challenges. Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo and Salvadoran officials have pledged continued support, with El Salvador committing additional personnel and medical evacuation helicopters.
The MSSM, spearheaded by Kenya’s contribution of 400 police officers, remains below its planned strength of 1,000 personnel. However, the inclusion of Central American forces is a significant boost as Haiti battles escalating gang violence that has displaced thousands and paralyzed key sectors.
Haiti’s request for international assistance, supported unanimously by the UN Security Council, underscores the urgency of addressing the crisis. The deployment of Guatemalan and Salvadoran forces follows similar commitments by Jamaica and Belize, showcasing a regional effort to bring stability to the Caribbean nation.
