Powerful Gang Leader and Former Teacher Iskar Andrice Killed in Haiti

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Iskar Andrice, a notorious gang leader in Haiti, was recently killed in the Belekou community, located within the Cite Soleil slum. Andrice, who had a background as a math and physics teacher, controlled this neighborhood for years before meeting his demise. The news of his death has raised concerns about the potential escalation of gang violence in the region.

Former mayor Esaie Beauchard expressed regret over Andrice’s involvement in criminal activities, highlighting his intelligence and academic background. The exact date of Andrice’s death is yet to be confirmed, and Jean-Frederique Islain, the current mayor of Cite Soleil, declined to comment on the matter when approached by The Associated Press.

Andrice led a gang involved in various criminal activities, including murder, robbery, extortion, rape, and the hijacking of goods and trucks, as reported by the United Nations. He later joined forces with renowned gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, widely known as Barbecue, to establish the formidable alliance called the “G9 Family and Allies.” This alliance became Haiti’s most influential and powerful gang group.

Before granting media interviews, Cherizier required Andrice’s approval, indicating the latter’s significant influence within the gang. Furthermore, the UN report revealed that Andrice, like other gang leaders, established the Siloe Foundation in 2015 to gain support from the community he controlled and project a positive image of himself.

The nonprofit National Human Rights Defense Network in Haiti accused Andrice and other gang leaders of leading deadly raids on Haitian neighborhoods, specifically targeting civilians. These leaders were also implicated in the disruption of operations at a major fuel terminal in Port-au-Prince, the capital city, last year. This act paralyzed the country and compelled Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry to urgently request the deployment of a foreign armed force.

The death of Iskar Andrice marks a significant development in Haiti’s ongoing battle against gang violence. The impact of his demise on the local gang dynamics and the potential rise of new leaders remains a matter of concern for the authorities. The Haitian government must now address the vacuum created by Andrice’s death to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.

Associated Press reporter Danica Coto in San Juan, Puerto Rico, contributed.