New York: The UN Security Council has unanimously voted to expand its arms embargo on Haiti due to serious concerns about the alarming levels of gang violence in the country.
The embargo now covers all types of arms and ammunition in Haiti, which is grappling with numerous challenges.
The resolution empowers the 193 UN member states to take “appropriate steps” to prevent the illegal trafficking and diversion of arms and related materials into Haiti.
Additionally, it extends a travel ban and asset freeze on gang members and other criminals listed on the UN’s blacklist.
Haiti has experienced years of instability, but the situation has deteriorated significantly since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, which created a power vacuum that increased the power of armed gangs. It is estimated that these gangs now control up to 80% of the capital, Port-au-Prince.
As a result, the unchecked flow of illicit weapons has contributed to a surge in violence, including rapes, killings, and kidnappings, leading to the emergence of civilian vigilante groups.
US “straw men” source of weapons
In the context of arms trafficking, “straw men” often refers to individuals who purchase firearms on behalf of someone else, usually bypassing legal restrictions.
This practice has been linked to gun violence, particularly in regions experiencing conflict or instability, such as Haiti. Reports indicate that U.S.-sourced weapons flow into these regions through straw purchasers, contributing to escalating violence and unrest.
The UN resolution, also encouraged the Haitian government to tighten up its borders to stop illicit trafficking.
The Security Council also voted in early October to extend the mandate of the Kenya-led multinational force trying to help the Haitian National Police combat the gangs.
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