April 16, 2025
The United States Ambassador to Haiti, Dennis B. Hankins, announced a new delivery of essential supplies to the Haitian National Police (HNP) during a meeting at the institution’s headquarters. Accompanied by the President of the Transitional Presidential Council (TPC), Leslie Voltaire, the Director General of the HNP, Rameau Normil, and the commander of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, Godfrey Otunge, the American diplomat emphasized Washington’s commitment to strengthening the capacity of Haitian law enforcement. “A well-equipped HNP and MSS are essential to continuing the fight against gangs,” he stated, stressing the need for an effective response against criminals seeking to destabilize the country.
The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL in French) of the U.S. State Department facilitated this delivery, which includes armored personnel transport vehicles, various types of magazines, weapons, ammunition, heavy machinery, and other materials to support operations on the ground. In addition to these supplies, the INL has already provided several other security tools in support of the Haitian forces and the MSS, deployed to strengthen efforts against armed gangs. “U.S. contributions aim to enhance the effectiveness of our partners in this crucial mission,” the U.S. Embassy stated in a press release.
This new logistical support comes as the HNP and MSS intensify their efforts to restore order in several strategic areas of the country. Despite ongoing challenges, Haitian authorities rely on this assistance to step up operations and reclaim territories controlled by criminal groups. The Director General of the HNP, Rameau Normil, welcomed this cooperation, stating that these additional resources “will improve our units’ ability to respond to threats and protect the population.”
The United States reaffirms its commitment to supporting security in Haiti, as part of a broader effort to restore political and institutional stability. “We remain committed to supporting the Haitian people in establishing stability that can lead to a Haitian-led political solution,” said Ambassador Hankins, emphasizing the importance of free and fair elections for the country’s future. This new initiative is part of a long-term strategy to help Haiti achieve a lasting resolution to its crisis.
