Haitian gangs continue avoiding security forces by shifting their focus to rural areas

Haiti's security situation continues to be precarious despite some improvements in parts of the capital, Port-au-Prince. Gang violence has continued unabated in other regions, with armed groups shifting their focus to towns on the outskirts of the capital.

The attack on Ganthier, a town of 60,000 people located on a crucial highway to the Dominican Republic border, highlights the ongoing security challenges, as the transitional council continues to struggle with stabilizing a country riddled with violence, mass migration, and economic decline.

The first contingent of Kenyan police officers, part of the international force, has been deployed in Haiti, but a New York Times report details it is considered insufficient in both numbers and resources to effectively dismantle the powerful gangs.

Additionally, the Presidential Transition Council, established in late April to lead the country towards national elections, is facing scrutiny from an anti-corruption agency over alleged patronage in government appointments. While council members have denied any wrongdoing, concerns about corruption persist.

The Kenyan force has mostly remained close to their base at Port-au-Prince's international airport, which reopened in May after being shut down for over two months due to nearby gang violence. The Kenyan mission commander, Godfrey Otunge, has claimed that his officers are contributing to a gradual return to normalcy, citing their efforts in patrolling the road to Ganthier. However, Mayor Victor reported that the security forces left shortly after arriving, allowing the gang to return and maintain control.

The Kenyan contingent, while welcomed, is still far below the 2,500 personnel originally expected. The mission's long-term viability is uncertain, with the United Nations authorization set to expire in October, and additional support from the international community required.

Although some experts and observers have noted a reduction in violence in central Port-au-Prince, large sections of the city remain unsafe, with many residents and businesses still fearful, the New York Times detailed.

The government's efforts to reclaim gang-controlled areas have been met with skepticism, with many Haitians doubting the promises of significant change. Haitian police chief, Rameau Normil, recently reported that operations had led to the deaths of 104 gang members, but many challenges remain.