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The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince issued a security alert on October 21, 2024, following a shooting on Rue Romain in the Tabarre area near the capital. The embassy has imposed temporary travel restrictions for official U.S. personnel in the affected area and has urged U.S. citizens to avoid Rue Romain and exercise caution amid the volatile situation.
This incident underscores the broader deterioration of security in Haiti, where violence from armed groups continues to destabilize the country. Armed gangs have increasingly asserted control over large parts of Port-au-Prince and other regions, leading to widespread displacement and violence. In mid-October, coordinated attacks by gangs in the Solino neighborhood resulted in the burning of homes, looting of businesses, and the death of at least one woman. These events have triggered further displacement of residents.
The situation in other parts of the country remains dire as well. In Pont Sondé, Bas Artibonite, an attack by an armed group on October 3 left over 100 people dead and displaced more than 6,700. The attackers damaged road infrastructure, blocking access from National Route 1 to the Savien area, hampering both aid deliveries and civilian movement.
Humanitarian organizations are struggling to respond to the growing crisis. UNICEF has pre-positioned recreational kits for over 1,300 displaced children, while the World Food Programme (WFP) provided more than 51,000 hot meals to over 7,000 displaced people in Bas Artibonite between October 6 and 13. Despite these efforts, the ongoing violence continues to complicate relief operations and worsen living conditions for those displaced.
The U.S. Embassy has advised all U.S. citizens to avoid large gatherings, steer clear of demonstrations, and refrain from attempting to drive through roadblocks. In the event of encountering a roadblock, individuals are advised to turn around and seek a safe location immediately.
Haiti’s security situation remains critical, and the international community is closely monitoring developments. The U.S. Embassy’s security alert is one of many recent warnings highlighting the risks posed by escalating violence and instability in the country.
