EU imposes sanctions against three Haitian gang leaders

EU imposes sanctions against three Haitian gang leaders

The measures include an asset freeze, a travel ban to the EU, and a ban on EU entities providing financial support.

The European Union has imposed sanctions on three Haitian gang leaders over violence and severe human rights abuse in the country.

A statement by the EU council links the trio to violent crimes, including robbery, kidnapping, extortion, and murder in the Caribbean nation.

The measures include an asset freeze, a travel ban to the EU, and a ban on EU entities providing financial support.

"Today the Council adopted restrictive measures against three Haitian individuals in view of the escalating gang violence including serious human rights abuses committed by the gangs in the country, and the continuing impunity by the perpetrators," the statement said.

Today's listings include Jonel Catel, leader of the Terre Noir gang which is affiliated with the G9 coalition of gangs in Haiti, Gabriel Jean-Pierre, leader of the GPep coalition of gangs, and Ferdens Tilus, leader of Kokorat San Ras Gang," t added

The council had earlier raised concerns over the escalating situation in Haiti and called for the full deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission to assist the Haitian National Police in combating gang violence and restoring the rule of law.

It further called for new targeted sanctions against individuals and entities responsible for violence, with the objective of helping to restore peace, security, stability, democracy and the rule of law in Haiti.

"The EU is ready to consider additional measures in response to the continuing violence affecting the country," the statement added.

Stay ahead of the news! Click ‘Yes, Thanks’ to receive breaking stories and exclusive updates directly to your device. Be the first to know what’s happening.