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The Dominican Republic has handed over two suspected members of the 400 Mawozo gang to Haitian authorities, marking a coordinated effort between the two nations to combat organized crime. The suspects, Lory Thermidor and Louis Jean Robenson, had crossed into Dominican territory in an attempt to escape justice in Haiti.
The transfer took place on February 1, 2025, at the Belladère border crossing, as part of a security cooperation agreement between the Dominican National Police (PND) and the Haitian National Police (PNH). Dominican authorities, including the Border Police (Polifront), played a key role in locating and detaining the fugitives before returning them to Haitian law enforcement.
Haitian media described the arrests as a significant blow to 400 Mawozo, a gang widely feared for its involvement in kidnappings, extortion, and violent attacks in Haiti. The criminal organization has been responsible for destabilizing communities and spreading terror, particularly in areas already struggling with insecurity.
With the suspects now in Haitian custody, the PNH will proceed with legal actions, underscoring the importance of cross-border collaboration in tackling gang-related violence.
The extradition highlights the growing security partnership between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, as both nations seek to curb the influence of criminal groups that operate across their shared border. In recent months, authorities on both sides have intensified efforts to disrupt gang networks, particularly those linked to transnational crimes such as human trafficking, arms smuggling, and illicit financial activities.
The case also reflects Haiti’s ongoing struggle with gang violence, which has worsened in recent years, leading to calls for stronger law enforcement measures and international support to restore order.
