Haiti: New Police Chief Takes Command in Saint-Marc Amid Rising Insecurity

Leadership change at Saint-Marc police station

A leadership transition has taken place at the police station in Saint-Marc, where Chief Commissioner Lyvenson Gauthier officially assumed command on March 16, 2026.

He succeeds Commissioner Nestor Ereste in a context marked by growing insecurity and the expansion of armed groups in several areas of the Artibonite Department.

The official handover ceremony, held the following day, was led by departmental director Jean Alex Pierre Louis, who emphasized the urgent need to strengthen security mechanisms to address threats facing the population.

Authorities call for increased police presence

Officials from the Haitian National Police (PNH) highlighted the importance of reinforcing law enforcement presence in the jurisdiction.

This strategic approach aims to:

• Improve operational effectiveness on the ground

• Strengthen rapid response capabilities

• Better contain criminal activities affecting the region

The Artibonite department has been increasingly affected by organized crime and armed group activity, raising concerns among residents and authorities alike.

Internal reorganization to adapt to evolving crime

According to police officials, the leadership change is part of a routine internal rotation process designed to bring renewed momentum to police units.

Authorities say the objective is to adapt policing methods to evolving forms of criminal activity, ensuring more efficient coordination and response strategies.

This transition reflects broader efforts within the PNH to modernize its operations and improve field performance in high-risk areas.

New commander calls for public cooperation

In his first remarks as head of the Saint-Marc police station, Lyvenson Gauthier stressed the importance of collaboration between law enforcement, local authorities, and the population.

He underscored that restoring security will depend not only on police operations but also on community trust and cooperation.

Gauthier expressed his commitment to working closely with all stakeholders to reestablish a stable and secure environment in Saint-Marc.

Strengthening the response to insecurity

Through this appointment, the police hierarchy aims to enhance its response to rising insecurity and improve coordination of operations across the Artibonite region.

As security challenges persist, authorities hope that renewed leadership and reinforced strategies will help curb violence and restore public confidence.

Ronald André.