Arrest of Seven (7) People Following the Citadelle Laferrière Tragedy in Haiti

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The Intervention Group of the Northern Departmental Judicial Police Service (SDPJ-Nord), acting under the orders of Government Commissioner Eno Zéphyrin, went to the Citadelle de Milot on the morning of Sunday, April 12, 2026. This action is part of the investigation into the tragedy that occurred at the Citadelle Laferrière on April 11, 2026, which claimed the lives of 25 people.

After questioning those present at the tourist site, investigators arrested seven (7) people. Among them are five (5) officers from the Milot municipal police: Jhon Coxllee (alias Myson), Genovè Octavien, Altidor Arly, Louis Max Andy, and Césaire Wilner Billy.  Two employees of the Institute for the Protection of National Heritage (ISPAN), assigned to the North Department, were also arrested: Wilfrid César and Valmyr Techlin. During the operation, investigators seized six cell phones and six security badges.

These seven individuals are currently being held at the Cap-Haïtien Central Police Station, pending the outcome of the investigation. The Haitian National Police (PNH) wishes to reassure the public that every effort is being made to shed light on this tragic event that has shaken the country.

Meanwhile, the Government of the Republic informs the nation that an extraordinary Council of Ministers meeting was held on Sunday, April 12, 2026, via videoconference, under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, following the tragedy at Citadelle Henry.

 In this hour of profound sorrow, the Republic bows solemnly before the memory of the victims and extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.

As a sign of national solidarity with the bereaved families, the Government announces that it will cover the funeral expenses of the victims.

Consequently, the Government has decreed three (3) days of national mourning throughout the country, on Tuesday, April 14, Wednesday, April 15, and Thursday, April 16, 2026. During this period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast, as a sign of remembrance, respect, and national unity.

Faced with this tragedy, the State firmly reaffirms its duty to protect, to seek truth, and to ensure justice. Legal proceedings have been immediately initiated, and the alleged perpetrators will be brought to justice so that the truth may be fully revealed.

The Prime Minister is dispatching the Minister of the Interior to the North to offer the Nation's official condolences to the families of the victims in these tragic circumstances.

 The Nation has been called upon to unite, to have dignity and a sense of responsibility.