When Law Enforcement Itself Becomes a Danger to Citizens

Violence in Haiti continues to intensify daily. The population is left to fend for itself, alone against armed gangs that massacre, terrorize, and endanger the safety of citizens. Haitian security forces remain the only bulwark against this cruel violence. However, one observation is striking: these officers, whose mission is to protect the population, engage in repeated acts that pose an additional threat to citizens.

A new practice has gradually emerged among agents of the Haitian National Police and the Armed Forces of the Republic, particularly during the funerals of their fallen comrades. These ceremonies are often marked by repeated gunfire, a practice intended as a tribute to the deceased but which, in reality, endangers the lives of citizens. These irresponsible acts have already claimed numerous innocent victims, transforming moments of remembrance into tragedies.

On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, during the funeral of officer Jeff Petit-Dieu, his colleagues used their weapons to fire shots in his honor. The same scenario occurred this Monday, March 17, 2025, during the funerals of two soldiers of the Haitian Armed Forces, killed during the gang offensive in Delmas. During these two events, the actions of the officers on site caused the death of numerous citizens, whether they had come to attend the funerals or lived in the vicinity.

Law enforcement's primary mission is to protect the population, not to endanger it. Yet, at every funeral of a police officer or soldier, dozens of live rounds are fired without regard for the consequences. These projectiles, once airborne, fall back with deadly force, injuring and killing civilians who have done nothing wrong. This behavior highlights a serious flaw in the training and discipline of Haitian security forces.

In a context where insecurity is already a daily scourge, seeing those who are supposed to uphold the law behave so irresponsibly is unacceptable and demonstrates a blatant lack of professionalism.

Adopting Other Forms of Tributes

Rather than using live ammunition, law enforcement could adopt other forms of tribute that do not endanger the population:

– Blank shots: Some armed forces around the world use blank ammunition during military honors. This allows for the maintenance of tradition without risking human lives.

– Moments of silence and sirens: Observing a minute of silence followed by the sounding of sirens would be a strong and respectful gesture, without harmful consequences.

– Solemn ceremonies: A dignified tribute, through speeches and symbolic ceremonies, would have far more impact than an ill-considered show of force.

A Call to Authorities and Military Commands

Officials of the Haitian National Police and the Armed Forces must fully assume their responsibilities regarding this recurring problem. Allowing these dangerous practices to persist demonstrates a laxity that only exacerbates the public's distrust of its security forces.