Recent events in Haiti include allegations against five TikTok influencers for receiving gifts from a gang leader, discussions on health projects with Taiwan, a strategic operation against crime by the National Palace, renovation works at Les Cayes airport, Paraguay’s appointment of an ambassador, and the honoring of Reggie Fils-Aimé by the American Embassy.
In recent news from Haiti, five Haitian influencers residing in the United States have come under scrutiny for allegedly receiving gifts from Renel Destina, the leader of the Gran Ravin gang. This claim is highlighted in a United Nations report on drugs and crime dated February 6, 2025. The influencers named include Tatie Mendel, Parolla, Belle-Enfant, Trapalman, and Commandant.
In a positive development, Bertrand Sinal, Haiti’s Minister of Public Health, met with Taiwanese Ambassador Cheng-Hao Hu to discuss various health initiatives. Notably, they reviewed the impending inauguration of a hospital funded by Taiwan in Terrier-Rouge, alongside preparations for launching a new cancer center.
Emmanuel Vertilaire, Presidential Advisor and head of the Justice, Public Security, and Rule of Law project, announced that the National Palace’s security units are engaged in a significant operation targeting crime syndicates. Following this operation, several criminals were reportedly neutralized, with promising updates anticipated.
Construction work is underway at the Antoine Simon airport in Les Cayes, focusing on repairing 1,370 meters of the runway and extending it by an additional 500 meters. This renovation aims to enhance passenger services through improved counter space facilities, with the firm Vorbe et Fils spearheading the project.
Paraguay has appointed Raúl Alberto Florentín Antola as its non-resident Ambassador to Haiti through a decree signed by President Santiago Peña. Florentín will operate from Paraguay’s Permanent Mission to the OAS in Washington, D.C.
On a notable cultural note, the American Embassy in Haiti recognized Reggie Fils-Aimé on February 28, coinciding with Black History Month. Fils-Aimé, a businessman of Haitian descent, was the former Director of Operations at Nintendo of America from 2006 to 2019, and he was born on March 25, 1961, in the Bronx, New York.
This report encapsulates significant developments in Haiti, revealing concerns about influencer connections to gang leadership, advancements in healthcare supported by international cooperation, and ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and safety. The acknowledgment of Haitian-American contributions to history further illustrates the cultural ties and achievements of the Haitian diaspora.
Original Source: www.haitilibre.com