JDF, JCF contingent deployed to Haiti to support fight against gangs

A 25-member contingent comprising personnel from the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has been deployed to Haiti to support the Gang Suppression Force (GSF).

This was disclosed by the JDF in a media release on Monday night.

The JDF said the team comprises 18 members of the army and seven from the JCF. Of this number, 12 JDF personnel are being rotated, and one new JCF member will join the contingent, the army stated.

The JDF also noted that Jamaica now has a total of 26 members of its security forces deployed to Haiti.

Chief of Defence Staff of the Jamaica Defence Force, Vice Admiral Antonette Wemyss-Gorman, said this marks the third contingent to be deployed to Haiti.

“This is a planned rotation that ensures the sustained effectiveness and operational readiness of Jamaica’s deployed personnel while maintaining continuity of mission objectives,” she said.

The JDF explained that the previous two deployments supported the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM). However, following the adoption of a United Nations resolution earlier this year transitioning the MSSM to the GSF, the Jamaican contingent is now supporting this new initiative to restore law and order in Haiti.

The JDF added that the GSF works closely with the Haitian National Police (HNP) and the Haitian Armed Forces to conduct operations aimed at restoring safety and security for citizens, securing critical infrastructure, and facilitating humanitarian access.

According to the JDF, the Jamaican contingent provides operational, strategic, and logistical support to the headquarters of the GSF.

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.