April 22, 2025
According to local media reports, police authorities, in collaboration with security agents at Cap-Haïtien International Airport, intercepted a package containing over $106,000 USD from Nassau, Bahamas, on Saturday, March 1. The money, intended for two individuals identified as Luckenson Clervaux and Erilène Bernadin, was seized in the presence of substitute judge Dieula Benjamin. Both individuals were arrested on money laundering and terrorism financing charges in accordance with existing laws.
This case is part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal financial practices at the airport, where Haitian migrants living irregularly in the Bahamas and Providenciales have developed a habit of sending money to their relatives through intermediaries. These funds are often transported by influencers, radio hosts, or local entrepreneurs. However, some cash shipments have been seized by customs officers, and reports of corruption attempts have surfaced.
EnFrandieu Saint-Juste, identified by authorities as the sender of the seized funds, denied any involvement in an illegal network. He claimed he had entrusted $26,000 to a Bahamas Air employee, Harold Simon, to send to Haiti, stating that the money was intended for Erilène Bernadin to purchase cement in the Nord-Ouest department. Saint-Juste, who has been living in the Bahamas for several years, defended himself by emphasizing his good standing within the Haitian community and his role as an authorized agent for several airlines.
When questioned about the origin and intended use of the funds, Saint-Juste insisted that his money had no connection to criminal activities, rejecting accusations circulating on social media. He also noted that he owned two construction supply stores in Port-de-Paix, which required him to send money to Haiti regularly.
This seizure comes as Haitian authorities intensify surveillance of suspicious financial transactions at Cap-Haïtien airport. In less than two weeks, two individuals have already been arrested for corruption within the AICH premises, highlighting officials’ determination to crack down on illegal financial activities at the airport.
