Haiti’s ‘Barbecue’ Escapes as Kenyan Officers Flatten His Base
In a dramatic turn of events on Sunday night, Kenyan police officers leading a Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti successfully raided Baz Delmas, the notorious stronghold of Jimmy Cherizier, alias Barbecue.
The operation, conducted in collaboration with the Haiti National Police (HNP), forced Barbecue and members of his gang, Viv Ansanm, to flee.
The Kenyan-led force, equipped with advanced drone surveillance, executed the surprise attack after a thorough reconnaissance of the area during a previous ambush attempt three days earlier.
According to MSS Commander Mr. Godfrey Otunge, the mission’s primary goal is to restore normalcy to Haiti, a nation plagued by gang violence.
“Our commitment to dismantling gang networks and dislodging them from their strongholds remains firm,” Otunge stated. “MSS is resolute in its mission and will not relent until these perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice.”
Destruction of Barbecue’s Base
The raid demolished Barbecue’s fortified base, revealing an excavator used to block access and several vehicles believed to have been used in gang activities. Although Cherizier and his militia evaded capture, the operation marked a significant blow to their network. Drone footage showed Barbecue and his gang members fleeing the scene as the police advanced.
This mission is part of an ongoing effort to combat Haiti’s rampant gang violence, which has left the country in turmoil. With over 400 Kenyan officers already deployed, an additional 600 are set to join, drawn from elite units including the General Service Unit (GSU) and the all-female Special Weapon and Tactics Team (SWATT).
Wider Implications
The operation also underscores international debate on whether the MSS mission should transition into a United Nations peacekeeping mission. While the U.S. supports the move, opposition from China and Russia continues to stall progress.
Haiti, a nation without a president since the assassination of Jovenel Moise in 2021, remains under transitional leadership. The MSS mission aims to create a secure environment conducive to holding long-overdue elections.
As the MSS intensifies its efforts, Barbecue’s escape is a stark reminder of the challenges ahead. However, the raid sends a clear message: the fight to reclaim Haiti from gang control is far from over.
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Haiti’s ‘Barbecue’ Escapes as Kenyan Officers Flatten His Base
