The group referred to as the “royal family,” which allegedly aided violent gang activities in Haiti, is now facing potential life imprisonment. Two members have recently admitted guilt to the charges against them, while another member has already been sentenced.
Eliande Tunis and Joly “Yonyon” Germine face potential life sentences for their involvement in aiding one of several Haitian gangs, collectively holding sway over approximately 80% of Port-au-Prince, as reported by the Associated Press. The two are accused of smuggling weapons and ammunition for the 400 Mawozo gang and participating in the abduction of multiple US missionaries for ransom. Allegedly, their actions paved the way for Jimmy “Barbeque” Chérizier, the current kingpin, to assert dominance in the area.
In May 2022, Tunis and Germain, along with two additional accomplices, Jocelyn Dor and Walder St. Louis, were apprehended on allegations of money laundering, smuggling, and conspiracy. Reportedly, Tunis, Dor, and Louis concealed shotguns, pistols, rifles, and assorted weaponry in containers filled with clothing, shoes, and various goods destined for Haiti.
Reportedly, Germain maintained regular communication with a 400 Mawozo leader, who dictated the types of weapons the gang obtained from illicit sources. According to the Department of Justice (DOJ), Dor is presently serving a 60-month sentence for his involvement in the operation, while St. Louis is awaiting a decision.
The four suspects were detained in Florida in October 2021. Tunis is confirmed to be a US citizen by the Department of Justice (DOJ). Germain, residing in Haiti, allegedly directed the operations of the 400 Mawozo gang from prison starting in 2018. Dor and St. Louis, both citizens of Haiti, were residing in Orlando and Miami, accordingly.
The 400 Mawozo gang has confessed to abducting 16 American nationals, including five children, who were engaged in missionary activities at a Haitian orphanage. According to Fox News, the criminals demanded $1 million per hostage. Chérizier, collaborating with other nearby gangs, recently masterminded a prison escape, resulting in 4,000 inmates being set loose. The violence ensuing from the jailbreak claimed the lives of at least nine individuals.
