Thread by @InSightCrime

This morning, the 15 members of the UN Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution which sanctioned #Haiti’s most powerful gang leader, Jimmy Cherizier, alias “Barbecue.”

In today’s #CriminalThreads we explore Barbecue’s ascension to prominence and power🧵👇

The sanctions come after the former police officer blocked the entrance to Terminal Varreux, the country’s largest oil terminal, for the second time in a year. The blockade has worsened a massive fuel crisis and paralyzed the country’s economy.
bit.ly/3VNIqAs

Barbecue has been a centerpiece of Haiti’s criminal landscape for years. He was fired from Haiti’s National Police and an arrest warrant was issued for his alleged participation in the 2018 La Saline massacre, which left at least 71 people dead.
bit.ly/3TMgv25

After eluding arrest, Barbecue emerged as the leader of the G9 and Family, an alliance of least nine gangs in Port-au-Prince. He alleged G9 would restore peace in Port-au-Prince, but the alliance has instead allowed gangs to expand territorial control.
bit.ly/3sjVUXb

G9 and Barbecue have benefited from strong ties to both politicians and Haiti’s private sector, who rely on gangs to control territory and protect their businesses and interests.
Some have even been implicated in arms trafficking, helping supply gangs. bit.ly/3MPYnlz

Barbecue has taken advantage of the power vacuum left by the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, calling for a revolution and demanding the resignation of interim President Ariel Henry. bit.ly/3Tmb1LJ