Recent Developments in Haiti: Security, Education, and Migration

Recent updates in Haiti depict the PNH addressing drone operation capabilities, an injured Kenyan officer from a security operation, ongoing U.S. deportations of Haitians, and legal proceedings involving former senator Nenel Cassy. Furthermore, schools are shifting to online learning, and migration challenges persist, coupled with a visit from the Haitian Chancellor to enhance consular support.

The Haitian National Police (PNH) spokesperson, Lionel Lazare, refuted claims regarding the lack of qualified technicians to operate drones, asserting that over 40 officers have been trained for this task in Mexico and Ecuador. Additionally, he revealed plans for the establishment of a technology service office within the PNH. Marie Isabelle Salvador, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, dismissed media reports that the UN called for a halt to the use of explosive drones against gangs as false.

On March 18, 2025, a member of the Kenyan contingent sustained injuries during a security operation in Kenscoff. The injured officer was promptly transported to ASPEN Level 2 Hospital for treatment and is currently reported to be in stable condition. Ombaka JACK, the Mission Spokesperson, expressed gratitude for the support and well-wishes extended by the Haitian community.

Despite the ongoing security challenges in Haiti, the United States continued deportations, as evidenced by a plane’s arrival at Cap-Haitien International Airport on March 18, 2025, carrying 46 Haitians, including 25 with criminal records. This situation highlights complex migration dynamics amid local insecurity.

Former Senator Nenel Cassy, who was previously under a wanted notice from the Central Directorate of the Judicial Police for alleged connections with armed gangs, appeared before the Port-au-Prince prosecutor’s office on March 17, 2025. His lawyer announced that the wanted notice against him had been rescinded after questioning by Government Commissioner Frantz Monclair.

The management of the Saint Louis de Gonzague Institution issued a memo announcing that all classes and activities would be suspended starting March 18, 2025, transitioning to online lessons via a digital platform, with classes set to resume on March 20, 2025, to encourage students to remain at home.

On March 15, 2025, the U.S. Coast Guard reported the rescue of 27 Haitians and 3 Dominicans who were attempting illegal entry into the United States. They were found abandoned by a human trafficker on the uninhabited Mona Island, located between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, and were subsequently handed over to U.S. Border Patrol agents for repatriation.

Haitian Chancellor Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste visited the Consulate General of Haiti in Miami, underscoring the consulate’s responsibility to provide enhanced protection to Haitian nationals, ensure effective support for their communities, and deliver quality documentation services as they serve a broader jurisdiction across six U.S. states.

In summary, recent developments in Haiti include a reaffirmation of police drone capabilities, the injury of a Kenyan officer during a security operation, ongoing U.S. deportations, and changes within the legal status of former senator Nenel Cassy. Additionally, educational institutions are adapting to remote learning, while migration issues continue to illustrate the challenges faced by individuals attempting to enter the United States. The visit of the Haitian Chancellor to the Miami consulate highlights efforts to support Haitians abroad.

Original Source: www.haitilibre.com