Haiti Ousts National Police Chief Frantz Elbe in Efforts to Fight Gang Violence

Haiti's government has replaced the National Police Chief to combat escalating gang violence.

Former Haiti National Police Chief Rameau Normil will replace Frantz Elbe in the prime minister's office.

Prime Minister Garry Conille, recently appointed by a transitional council, faces pressure to strengthen the underfunded and ill-equipped Haitian National Police.

Conille's appointment follows gangs taking over parts of Port-au-Prince, leading to former Prime Minister Ariel Henry's ousting, Aljazeera reports.

Critics, including Pierre Esperance from the National Network for Defense of Human Rights (RNDDH), condemned Elbe's tenure for alleged ties with gangs.

Police unions also demanded Elbe's resignation and arrest due to numerous gang attacks on police stations.

Struggles of the Haiti National Police

The Haitian National Police (PNH) is battling armed gangs that have taken over much of Port-au-Prince.

Prime Minister Garry Conille's office confirmed that the Haiti National Police Chief will be replaced, pending a decree from Conille and the presidential transition council.

The PNH has faced severe resource shortages while combating well-armed gangs, with many weapons trafficked from the United States.

The force has dwindled in numbers and struggled with inadequate equipment, according to Reuters.

Rameau Normil, who led the PNH from mid-2019 to late 2020, will replace Frantz Elbe.

Normil's previous tenure faced significant challenges, including the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021 and the kidnapping of 17 US and Canadian missionaries by the 400 Mawozo gang.

The RNDDH's survey highlighted dire conditions for police officers, with over 320 killed since 2015, including 120 under Elbe.

Officers reported late pay, insufficient training, harassment, and equipment shortages.

Frantz Elbe's leadership has been heavily criticized for alleged collusion with gangs and undermining police effectiveness.

The Citizens' Protection Office urges Normil to swiftly create a plan to control gang violence and improve the Haiti police force's capabilities.

Increasing Violence and Government Response

Haiti gang violence has caused over 2,500 casualties in the first three months of this year, with nearly two dozen police officers killed.

Gangs, controlling 80% of Port-au-Prince, have superior firepower, AP News noted.

Rameau Normil's reappointment as Haiti National Police Chief coincides with a new prime minister and cabinet taking office.

Normil was previously dismissed from the role nearly four years ago.

International support, including training and resources, has been provided to the Haiti Police, but challenges persist.

An UN-backed police force from Kenya is expected to help contain the violence and boost morale.

The RNDDH's survey highlighted issues within the police force, such as unpaid salaries, lack of psychological support, outdated equipment, and inadequate training.

Reports of police collaboration with gangs exacerbate these problems.

Rameau Normil's appointment is seen as crucial in addressing the Haiti gang violence crisis.

With international support and internal reforms, there is hope that the Haitian National Police can regain its strength and restore order.

The new government faces significant challenges, but a renewed focus on security and stability could bring peace to the nation.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

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