Published on: 2025-07-16

Intelligence Report: Thousands of Haitians mark annual pilgrimage far from a sacred waterfall surrounded by gangs – ABC News

1. BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)

The annual pilgrimage to the sacred waterfall in Saut-d’Eau, Haiti, was disrupted due to gang control in the area, forcing thousands to gather elsewhere. This situation highlights the increasing influence of gangs in Haiti, posing significant threats to public safety and cultural traditions. Immediate attention is required to address the security challenges and restore order.

2. Detailed Analysis

The following structured analytic techniques have been applied to ensure methodological consistency:

Causal Layered Analysis (CLA)

– **Surface Events**: The pilgrimage was relocated due to gang presence, impacting cultural practices.
– **Systemic Structures**: Weak governmental control and law enforcement have allowed gangs to dominate regions.
– **Worldviews**: The populace views the pilgrimage as a vital spiritual and cultural event, now threatened by violence.
– **Myths**: The belief in the protective power of the waterfall is challenged by the current inability to access it.

Cross-Impact Simulation

The gang violence in Haiti could destabilize neighboring regions, potentially increasing migration pressures and impacting regional security dynamics.

Scenario Generation

– **Best Case**: Effective intervention restores security, allowing the pilgrimage to resume safely.
– **Worst Case**: Escalation of gang violence leads to further displacement and regional instability.
– **Most Likely**: Continued gang control results in ongoing disruptions to cultural and social activities.

3. Implications and Strategic Risks

The unchecked rise of gang influence in Haiti poses a strategic risk to national security and regional stability. The potential for increased violence and displacement could have cascading effects, including heightened migration and economic strain on neighboring countries.

4. Recommendations and Outlook

• Enhance international cooperation to support Haitian law enforcement and strengthen border security.
• Develop community-based programs to counter gang influence and promote social cohesion.
• Scenario-based projections suggest prioritizing diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region.

5. Key Individuals and Entities

– Jeff (Canaan gang leader)
– Larose (Leader associated with the church in Saut-d’Eau)
– Lanmo Sanjou (Leader of the Mawozo gang)
– Jimmy Chrizier (Leader known as Barbecue)

6. Thematic Tags

national security threats, regional instability, cultural preservation, gang violence