The U.S. Department of State has announced a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Haitian gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, also known as “Barbecue.”
This move underscores U.S. concerns about gang violence destabilizing Haiti and threatening regional security.
Background on Viv Ansanm
Viv Ansanm, a coalition of major gangs in Port-au-Prince, was designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the U.S. on May 2, 2025.
The group is responsible for widespread violence in Haiti, including mass murder and rape of civilians. This designation reflects international concern over Haiti’s escalating security crisis.
The coalition formed in September 2023 and has since conducted coordinated attacks on state institutions, contributing to political instability in the country.
The resignation of former Prime Minister Ariel Henry in March 2024 further highlights the impact of gang activities on Haiti’s governance.
U.S. Legal Actions
The U.S. Department of Justice indicted Jimmy Cherizier on charges related to conspiracy to violate U.S. sanctions. This legal action is part of broader efforts by the U.S. government to combat transnational crime and bring fugitives like Cherizier to justice.
Brazile Richardson, a co-defendant in the indictment, is also implicated in these charges. The involvement of FBI and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) underscores the seriousness with which the U.S. approaches this case.
International Cooperation Efforts
- The Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission aims to stabilize Haiti amid ongoing gang threats.
- U.N.’s monitoring role highlights global attention on Haiti’s security situation.
- Laurent Saint-Cyr leads efforts within Haiti’s transitional presidential council for stabilization.
- U.S.-Haiti diplomatic relations may face challenges due to these actions against Viv Ansanm.
Regional Implications
The instability caused by gangs like Viv Ansanm poses risks beyond Haiti’s borders, potentially affecting regional security through increased migration pressures and transnational crime that could impact U.S. borders directly.
Security Concerns
- The collapse of state presence in Port-au-Prince exacerbates regional instability risks.
- Gang control expansion limits effective governance within Haiti.
- Continued violence threatens economic development and foreign investments or aid programs in the region.
Human Rights Considerations
The actions taken by the U.S., including sanctions against Haitian government officials previously sanctioned alongside Cherizier for human rights abuses, align with its policies aimed at addressing such violations globally.
Additional Reading
Bottom Line
The situation in Haiti remains precarious as international efforts continue to address gang violence and restore stability.
The actions taken by the United States highlight its commitment to combating organized crime while emphasizing human rights concerns amidst complex geopolitical dynamics impacting both regional security and diplomatic relations with Haitian authorities.
Sources: U.S. Department of State, ABC3340 News Article on Jimmy Cherizier Indictment, and ACLED Report on Viv Ansanm Alliance.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News™, an independent news organization delivering timely insights from global official sources. Combines AI-analyzed research with human-edited accuracy and context.
