Haiti‘s “400 Mawozo” Gang declares “Total War,” Issues Stay-at-Home Order
PORT-AU-PRINCE, HAITI – February 29, 2024 - Haiti’s powerful “400 Mawozo” gang has declared a “total war” against rival groups, simultaneously issuing a directive for residents to remain in their homes today, February 29, as violence escalates across teh nation’s capital and beyond. The escalation represents a direct challenge to both the Haitian National Police (PNH) and international efforts to stabilize the country, and raises concerns about the potential for widespread humanitarian crisis.
The gang’s declaration comes amid a sustained offensive by the PNH targeting “400 Mawozo” strongholds, potentially forcing leadership and key members to seek refuge near the Dominican border. This shift in dynamics threatens to destabilize the already fragile border region and poses a direct security risk to the Dominican Republic, prompting calls for enhanced border control measures beyond current military deployments and the construction of a border wall. The situation is especially acute given the gang’s demonstrated capacity to smuggle weapons and illicit goods through both Haitian ports and overland routes into the Dominican republic, as evidenced by recent seizures in Dominican ports.
“400 Mawozo” has been a dominant force in Haiti’s escalating gang violence for years, notorious for kidnappings, extortion, and widespread brutality. The current offensive, and the gang’s defiant response, mark a significant turning point in the conflict. The possession of heavy military weaponry by the gang, coupled with attacks targeting foreign entities, transforms Haiti’s internal strife into a persistent and direct threat to regional security.
The escalating violence is expected to exacerbate the existing humanitarian crisis in Haiti, where access to essential services is severely limited and a significant portion of the population is already displaced. The stay-at-home order issued by “400 Mawozo” will further disrupt daily life and impede humanitarian efforts. The Dominican Republic is bolstering security along its border, recognizing the potential for spillover effects from the intensifying conflict.
