Violence and Uncertainty Surround Port-au-Prince’s Airport Amid Security Crackdown
Reports indicate that armed gangs are pressing to seize Haiti’s main international gateway, Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince. On the ground, the airfield was already non-operational because of the nation’s turmoil. It became the center of a violent confrontation as bandits moved to take control of key airport zones. Police units answered with force, and an armored vehicle stationed on the runway fired to deter attackers from gaining access to the facility.
Civilian airport workers found themselves caught in the crossfire, fleeing their posts to seek safety. The clash highlighted the fragile security situation that affects essential infrastructure in the capital and complicates efforts to restore operations when stability is most needed. The report notes that the airport had stopped functioning amid the ongoing crisis and the heightened risk to public safety. [citation: AP]
In parallel diplomatic notes, the Russian Embassy in Port-au-Prince indicated that Russians in Haiti had not yet requested help from Russian missions. The embassy said it stands ready to provide support if needed, reflecting ongoing concerns about protection and coordination for foreign nationals during the unrest. [citation: AP]
Earlier, Haitian authorities announced a state of emergency in Port-au-Prince and imposed a curfew lasting at least three days to curb fighting between gangs and security forces. The measure aims to reduce violence, protect civilians, and restore a basic level of public order while investigations and security operations continue. [citation: AP]
There were also unconfirmed reports about plans for large-scale explosions in schools to heighten urban fear or disrupt daily life, a claim authorities were evaluating as part of broader security concerns affecting urban safety and community resilience. [citation: AP]