By Moïse François, Vant Bèf Info, Oct. 19, 2026
Guatemala held an official ceremony on October 19, 2026, marking the departure of a second contingent of military police officers destined for the Gang Repression Force (FRG) in Haiti. This announcement comes the day after the disappearance of four Salvadoran soldiers, attacked while returning to their camp in an armored vehicle.
The ceremony was held on the Guatemalan Air Force airfield. It was presided over by Major General Henry David Sáenz Ramos, Guatemala's Minister of National Defense. The United States Defense Attaché accredited to the country also participated.
Four Salvadoran soldiers are still wanted
The four Salvadoran soldiers are aeronautical technicians assigned to the FRG. According to the Salvadoran Armed Forces, their armored vehicle was attacked on October 18 as they were returning to their camp. The four men managed to escape the vehicle, which then caught fire.
The search continued after the attack. This incident underscores the risks faced by members of the international force in areas where armed groups remain active.
The FRG faces operational challenges
Authorized by the United Nations Security Council in September 2025, the FRG's mission is to support efforts to combat armed gangs in Haiti, in support of national security forces.
Its authorized strength can reach 5,500 military and police personnel, with 50 civilian support staff. However, its deployment faces difficulties in terms of personnel, logistics, and security.
Armed groups retain significant operational capacity in several areas of the country. This situation complicates operations and limits the possibility of maintaining a lasting presence there.
The departure of the second Guatemalan contingent comes amid this difficult security context. Its deployment is intended to contribute to strengthening the FRG's troop numbers, as the force continues its operations alongside Haitian institutions.
Posted Oct. 27, 2026