Haitian Gang Seeks Disarmament Dialogue

The 400 Mawozo gang contacted Haiti's National Commission for Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration on Friday.

The group, which describes itself as a rebel force, sent a three-page statement to The Associated Press outlining its intent to engage in peace talks. The letter emphasized that dialogue represents an act of patriotic responsibility rather than a capitulation to military pressure.

Wilson Joseph, the gang leader, previously wrote to the United Nations on Nov. 1 requesting a delegation for mediation. He expressed concern that the presence of Salvadoran troops could escalate violence. The gang now plans a peaceful demonstration later this month to prepare for national negotiations.

The state commission confirmed that an individual reached out on behalf of the armed group. However, the commission stated it operates under the prime minister's office and must follow a government-proposed roadmap for any discussions.

The outreach occurred while police and foreign forces continued combat operations. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé announced on X late Friday that a gang leader was killed in a joint operation. Haitian police identified the deceased as Mathias, the leader of the Boston gang, who operated in the Cité Soleil slum.

Police urged residents to surrender illegal weapons to change their lives. They reported that several gang members were injured or killed during the operation.

An anonymous spokesperson for 400 Mawozo told The Associated Press that the gang is willing to negotiate and views disarmament as a process. The group seeks peace and an end to what it calls international interference. It requested that military forces suspend operations in specific areas to allow for de-escalation and civilian protection.

The letter also addressed social media posts targeting Joseph's home. El Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele responded to a post on X by demanding the exact address of the house so it could be destroyed. The gang cited the Geneva Conventions and the U.N. Charter to argue that civilian property must be respected during this period.

El Salvador deployed more than 2,000 troops to Haiti following the Oct. 18 attack on four Salvadoran aviation technicians. The United Nations noted that most Salvadoran personnel operate outside the framework of the official U.N.-backed suppression force.

El Salvador's government declined to comment on the developments on Friday night.