Iskar Andrice, a powerful gang leader in Haiti, who was known as a former math and physics teacher, met his demise in a neighborhood within a sprawling seaside slum that he controlled.
According to reports from the Associated Press (AP), the exact date of his death remains unclear. However, Andrice’s death has raised concerns of an escalation in gang violence within the already volatile region.
The enigmatic gang leader
Iskar Andrice, also known as Iscar Andris’ transition from the role of an educator to a feared gang leader has shocked many.
Speaking to Radio Galaxie FM, former mayor Esaïe Beauchard lamented the regrettable involvement of Andrice in criminal activities, highlighting his intelligence.
A reign of violence
Reports are that Andrice led a ruthless gang involved in a wide array of criminal activities, including murder, robbery, extortion, rape, and hijacking. A recent UN report shed light on the extent of their brutality.
Andrice joined forces with notorious gang leader Jimmy Chérizier, known as Barbecue, becoming a key figure in the “G9 Family and Allies” alliance, Haiti’s largest and most potent gang group.
It is further reported that media interactions involving Jimmy Chérizier required prior approval from Andrice, exemplifying his significant influence within the gang.
To bolster his image within the community, Andrice, like other gang leaders, established the Siloé Foundation in 2015, to win over the community he controlled and present a positive image of himself.
Allegations of atrocities:
Andrice, along with fellow gang leaders, faced grave allegations of orchestrating deadly raids on Haitian neighborhoods that targeted innocent civilians.
The nonprofit National Human Rights Defense Network in Haiti documented these accusations, further tarnishing their reputations.
Paralyzing a nation
Andrice and his associates were also accused of paralyzing operations at a crucial fuel terminal in Port-au-Prince.
This move, which transpired last year, had far-reaching consequences, plunging the nation into crisis and compelling Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry to request urgent foreign armed intervention.
