Insecurity in Haiti has reached a new tragic milestone. On the evening of Tuesday, December 30, 2025, Chief Inspector Jean Sterlin Hold, alias "Blan" or "San Souci", head of the Lotin sub-police station (located in the Fermathe area), a locality in Fort-Jacques, Kenscoff commune, was cowardly assassinated by gunfire. The inspector, originally from Jérémie, was known for his commitment to fighting the "Kraze Baryè" gang and for protecting the residents of Fort-Jacques. He embodied a sense of duty, sacrifice, and dedication to serving the community.

The attack occurred around 7:00 p.m. in front of the "Sheeshee's Food" Club in Fort-Jacques. According to the Haitian National Police (PNH) report, the victim was struck by two bullets; one was stopped by his bulletproof vest, but the second proved fatal.

According to a PNH note published on December 31, 2025, the preliminary investigation identified Louis Marcus, alias "50", the owner of the club, as the suspected perpetrator of the murder. A search was conducted at his home and at the club, leading to the arrest of Johnny Roseus, described as his brother-in-law. Forensic investigators seized a surveillance camera for analysis.

The General Directorate of the Haitian National Police (DG-PNH) instructed the head of the Inspector General's Office (IGPNH) and the Central Directorate of the Judicial Police (DCPJ) to open a thorough investigation to identify and arrest those responsible for the murder and bring them to justice.

Reaction following this assassination :

PNH :

"The Haitian National Police (PNH) extends its deepest condolences to the family of Chief Inspector Hold Jean Esterlin, to his loved ones, and to his colleagues and fellow officers of the PNH. It reaffirms its total commitment to ensuring that the truth is uncovered regarding this heinous act and that justice is served."

Presidential Transitional Council (CPT):

"In this painful circumstance, the CPT expresses its sincere condolences to the bereaved family, to the victim’s loved ones, and to the police force as a whole.

The Presidential Transitional Council respectfully bows before the memory of this valiant servant of the State and reiterates its support for the Haitian National Police in its mission to restore and maintain public safety throughout the country. May his soul rest in peace and may his commitment continue to inspire all those who work for the defense and security of the country."

Kenscoff City Hall :

Jean Massillon, the Mayor of Kenscoff, and the city's Executive Council reacted strongly to this tragedy : "This extremely serious criminal act, an attack on the sacred right to life and the fundamental principles of republican order, constitutes a direct attack against public peace, collective security, and the civic engagement embodied by the victim in service to the Kenscoff community. [...] The City Council offers its sincere condolences to the family of the murdered inspector, to his loved ones, to the police force, and to all the residents of Kenscoff, deeply affected by this tragic loss."

SL/ HaitiLibre