Published on: 2025-04-04

Intelligence Report: Armed gangs murder 2 nuns in Haiti – Catholicnewsagency.com

1. BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)

The murder of two nuns, Evanette Onezaire and Jeanne Voltaire, by armed gangs in Haiti highlights the escalating violence and instability in the region. The incident underscores the growing influence of armed groups, such as the coalition known as Vivre Ensemble, and the inability of local authorities to maintain order. Immediate international intervention and support are required to stabilize the situation and protect vulnerable communities.

2. Detailed Analysis

The following structured analytic techniques have been applied for this analysis:

General Analysis

The murder occurred in the town of Mirebalais, central Haiti, where the armed group stormed a police station and freed prisoners, exacerbating the chaos. The attack is part of a broader pattern of violence following the assassination of Jovenel Moïse in July, which has left a power vacuum and increased gang control over large areas. The Catholic Church, a significant community pillar, is under threat, with parishes closed and clergy forced to flee. This reflects a broader societal collapse under the weight of unchecked criminal activity.

3. Implications and Strategic Risks

The continued violence poses significant risks to national security and regional stability. The power vacuum and lack of legitimate leadership have allowed gangs to gain control, threatening economic interests and humanitarian conditions. The situation could lead to increased migration pressures and destabilization of neighboring regions. The Catholic Church’s compromised position further weakens social cohesion and resilience.

4. Recommendations and Outlook

Recommendations:

• Enhance international support for law enforcement and judicial reforms to restore order and governance.
• Implement community-based programs to reduce gang recruitment and provide alternative livelihoods.
• Strengthen regional cooperation to address cross-border crime and migration issues.

Outlook:

Best-case scenario: International intervention stabilizes the region, reducing gang influence and restoring governance.

Worst-case scenario: Continued violence leads to further societal collapse and regional destabilization.

Most likely outcome: Without significant intervention, the situation will deteriorate, with gangs maintaining control and humanitarian conditions worsening.

5. Key Individuals and Entities

The report mentions significant individuals and organizations:

• Evanette Onezaire
• Jeanne Voltaire
• Max Leroy Mesidor
• Marc Henry Simon
• Jovenel Moïse
• Vivre Ensemble