The government calls on mercenaries to confront gangs

Facing the security collapse in Port-au-Prince, the Haitian government reportedly concluded a confidential agreement with Erik Prince, an associate of Donald Trump and founder of the private military company Blackwater, to track down armed gangs terrorizing the population. This is revealed by an investigation published by The New York Times on May 27, 2025.

According to several sources close to the matter, Erik Prince has reportedly been collaborating with Haitian authorities since March to establish a special unit equipped with armed drones and composed notably of Haitian-American veterans. Up to 150 mercenaries could be deployed this summer, accompanied by a significant shipment of weapons already delivered to the country.

While gangs currently control vast areas of the Haitian capital and over a million people have been displaced, voices are rising to criticize the use of foreign private forces. The U.S. State Department states it was informed of Eric Prince's involvement but is unable to disclose information about the contract, which remains confidential to date. The United States would also not be involved in funding the operations.

Haitian Minister of Economy, Alfred Métellus, nevertheless justifies openness to all options: « The doors are open. All possibilities must be considered. »

This is not the first time Haiti has relied on private security forces. In a country where the state struggles to guarantee basic security, this choice could redefine the contours of the monopoly on legitimate violence and allow Haitian authorities to regain control of the national territory.

The editorial team