Haitian police arrest ex-lawmaker accused of arming gangs to influence elections

In a significant police action, Prophane Victor, a former member of Parliament in Haiti, was arrested in Port-au-Prince. This event took place on a Sunday and is seen as an important victory for Haitian law enforcement amidst widespread corruption and impunity involving high-ranking politicians. Victor, who represented the Petite Riviere area of the Artibonite region, has long been implicated in serious crimes related to gang activity, notably known for equipping gang members to secure his electoral success in 2016. His alleged involvement with criminal organizations has drawn extensive scrutiny from local and international authorities. Victor's connections to gang violence began when he armed local youths during his campaign, leading to the formation of Gran Grif, which has been labeled the largest gang in the Artibonite region. As the gang's influence grew, Victor reportedly fell out with them around 2020, if not earlier, due to unmet promises made during the election period. After distancing himself from Gran Grif, accusations surfaced suggesting that Victor began supporting rival gangs, which has heavily tarnished his reputation and incited further investigations into his dealings. The arrest is notable because it signals a potential shift in the Haitian government's willingness to address the complicity of politicians in gang violence. Victor was previously sanctioned by Canada and the U.S. for his alleged support of gangs accused of significant human rights abuses. The U.S. imposed sanctions on him in September 2024, highlighting the international focus on and condemnation of criminal activities intertwining with political practices in Haiti. Following his arrest, there remain questions about the legal processes surrounding Victor, such as whether he will enlist legal representation. In a backdrop of rampant crime and weakened institutions, his case may symbolize a critical turning point for Haitian law enforcement, potentially enabling them to confront the longstanding issue of gang alliances with political actors. This case could catalyze further actions against other politicians involved in similar practices, which is imperative for restoring public trust and safety in the nation.