Security Alert Issued as Gunfire Erupts Near US Embassy in Haiti

The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince, Haiti issued a warning to American citizens on Saturday about ongoing security operations occurring both north and south of the embassy, as well as in Croix-de-Bouquets.

The alert from the Department of State followed reports of intense gunfire in the Haitian capital, leading U.S. government officials to suspend all travel movements.

Despite the situation, the embassy continues to provide emergency services.

Authorities have advised U.S. citizens in the vicinity to steer clear of the affected areas and stay informed by following local news updates.

In Port-au-Prince, police patrol the streets amidst escalating gang violence. (Reuters/Ralph Tedy Erol/File Photo)

Armed gangs control large portions of Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas, according to the U.S. State Department and the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). 

Croix-de-Bouquets, one of the areas referenced in Saturday’s security alert, has long been considered a “400 Mawozo” gang stronghold.

“400 Mawozo” gang leader Joly Germine, 34, of Croix-des-Bouquets, Haiti, was sentenced to life in prison in December for his role in the 2021 abduction of 16 American citizens, including five children, Fox News Digital previously reported.

Police stop at a car to inspect in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.  (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)

The victims, with Ohio-based Christian Aid Ministries, were on their way back from an orphanage when they were taken hostage, according to the Justice Department.

The State Department currently maintains a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Haiti, citing kidnapping, crime, terrorist activity, civil unrest and limited health care.

Residents run past burning tires in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. (Clarens Siffroy/AFP via Getty Images)

The State Department did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.