According to Reuters, access to a crucial supply port in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, has been suspended due to escalating attacks by armed gangs.
The operator, Caribbean Port Services (CPS), announced that all land-based traffic would be halted from September 26 to September 29 to allow security forces to stabilize the area. Reports indicate that ships have been targeted, making docking and unloading dangerous, and two Filipino crew members were kidnapped from a cargo vessel, Reuters reports.
Earlier this year, violence led to the closure of major seaports and the international airport for nearly three months, highlighting the ongoing instability in the region.
In an update from NorthStandard in early September, it was mentioned that it is very common to hear gun shots at any berth in the Port-au-Prince area.
Furthermore, it was advised that all crew members NOT on duty remain inside the super structure to avoid being struck by stray bullets and request that additional security be placed onboard during the discharging operations. Crew members should be kept on watch 24/7 from a safe distance.
