In an end-of-year note dated December 30, 2023, the Haitian National Police Union (SPNH-17) draws up a grim assessment of the year 2023 and calls, among other things, for tanks and helicopters to eradicate gangs and protect police officers.

Note from the SPNH-17 Union :

"What we see happening in the police is a very serious situation, and the central power has a great responsibility. It is important that leaders take steps to protect police officers, provide them with better working conditions and ensure they have the equipment and training necessary for their work.

In 2023, more than 41 police officers died, 5 disappeared, 23 police stations were looted, vandalized and controlled by thugs. Around 2,000 police officers gave up and resigned, 5 cars and other police equipment were burnt, more territories were lost, police officers had to separate from their families after the bandits attacked their house, they are on one side, their family (wife and child) on the other side. More and more women are being raped, more Haitians are fleeing the country, numerous acts on national roads and at sea testify to the catastrophic record of the police leadership.

The SPNH-17 has already said it and we reiterate it, the PNH deserves another 'leadership', more means to deal with the situation such as:

1. Helicopters, good armored vehicles, tanks with PROTECTION equipment, good weapons and plenty of ammunition to carry out good operations;

2. Minimum salary of 50,000 gourdes, ticket of 25,000 gourdes;

3. Good physical/mental health insurance;

4. A good monthly pension to compensate the families of victim police officers.

These are all the conditions for Haiti to get out of where it is today and guarantee the police officers to stop running, because tomorrow is not guaranteed.

The SPNH-17 will continue to fight against corruption, abuse of power and mistreatment of agents [...] we will fight against old behavior to restore the image of the police."

HL/ HaitiLibre