A substantial number of foreign nationals, including those from the Caribbean are currently held in Haitian detention facilities, some on serious charges like drug trafficking and murder, with many of them not knowing if they will ever appear before a court.
Police Inspector General, Pierre René François, revealed to the Haitian-Caribbean News Network (HCNN) that at least 52 foreigners, including seven Colombians, 13 Jamaicans, 10 Dominican Republic, and two from the Bahamas, have been detained in several detention centers in Haiti.
Reports are that at least 142 inmates died last year, many by cholera and other infectious diseases.
Detainees accused of involvement in the killing of President Jovenel Moïse
The inspector shared with the HCNN that a number of the detained Colombians are suspected to be involved in the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse.
The assassination of the former president at his private residence, was allegedly committed by a commando team, comprising mainly former Colombian soldiers.
Reports are that some Colombians under detention refute the allegations, stating they were deceived into participating by the masterminds behind the assassination.
They claim their mission was to execute an arrest warrant against the then-sitting president.
More on the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse
- Haitian Judge interviews Colombian suspects in President Moïse’s murder case
- US authorities make more arrests in the murder of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse
- Haiti marks first anniversary of the assassination of President Jovenel Moise
- Former Haitian senator appears in court on charges linked to the murder of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse
Other detainees in Haitian jails
Other detainees also hail from countries such as Uruguay, Bolivia, the United States, Cameroon, and Nigeria.
Reports are that five detainees’ nationalities remain unknown.
Haiti in turmoil
The country has seen a spike in criminal activity, from kidnappings, murders and rapes. Several of the country’s institutional frameworks have also crumbled under the weight of the unrest.
With the situation deteriorating, Prime Minister Dr Ariel Henry has appealed to the global community.
He seeks the deployment of a multi-national peacekeeping force in hopes of restoring order and security to the beleaguered French-speaking CARICOM nation.
More on Haiti’s situation
- CARICOM Eminent Group arrives in Haiti to discuss ongoing issues
- Rampant gang attacks in Haitian capital leave 30 dead
- Haiti’s capital sees massive exodus amidst rising gang threats
- Haiti’s cry for safety: Thousands protest against mounting gang threats
- Jamaica’s PM calls on EU amplify funding for Haiti’s humanitarian crisis
