Bukele issues an ultimatum to gangs in Port-au-Prince

Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele announced on Thursday that his forces have regained control of the Estadio Nacional Sylvio Cator, located in the Haitian capital. He stated that an operational base would be established at this location in order to advance further into territories controlled by criminal gangs.

"I am addressing the gang members firmly and asking them to leave the area before the offensive begins. Those who decide to stay and fight our forces will suffer the consequences," he added in a message on X, his social media platform.

The joint operation with the Haitian police and armed forces aimed at restoring control of the stadium took place this Thursday. Authorities indicated that several human skulls had been discovered on the premises of the facility.

Since October, the Salvadoran military presence in Haiti has increased significantly following the kidnapping of an airport technical team. The total contingent dispatched amounts to more than 2,000 soldiers, including special units.

Bukele also announced the destruction of the home and headquarters of the criminal group 400 Mawozo, led by Wilson Joseph, known as Lanmò San Jou. This operation was carried out with the support of helicopters.