A man known as 'Yonyon,' who once claimed to be the 'king' of a violent gang in Haiti, has been sentenced to 35 years in prison in a federal court in Washington, D.C. The man, Germine Joly, pleaded guilty to weapons smuggling and money laundering related to the kidnapping of 16 U.S. citizens in October 2021.
The case against Joly is part of a broader effort by U.S. authorities to combat the smuggling of weapons from the U.S. to Haiti. Gangs in Haiti, controlling a significant portion of the capital, have caused widespread displacement and chaos, with over 580,000 people left homeless.
U.S. officials are also working to address the issue of U.S. citizens being kidnapped in Haiti, as the ransom money often funds the acquisition of illegal arms and ammunition.
Joly, who was a leader of the '400 Mawozo' gang, known for its violence and criminal activities, had requested leniency during his sentencing. The gang operates in Croix-des-Bouquets and surrounding areas, engaging in kidnappings, drug trafficking, and other crimes.
Three shipments of weapons arrived in Haiti in 2021, just before the gang kidnapped 17 missionaries, including 16 Americans. The gang's ability to acquire firearms highlights the significant resources at its disposal.
The gang's current leader, Joseph Wilson, remains at large, despite a warrant for his arrest issued by Haitian authorities. Joly, who was previously arrested in Haiti, continued to direct gang operations from prison, including the 2021 kidnapping of missionaries.
Joly's former girlfriend, Eliande Tunis, was also sentenced for her involvement in weapons smuggling. The group supplied weapons such as AK-47s and AR-15s to the gang, with Joly orchestrating operations from his prison cell using unmonitored cell phones.
Joly still faces additional charges related to the kidnappings of U.S. citizens. The sentencing of Joly and Tunis represents a significant step in holding individuals accountable for their roles in perpetuating violence and criminal activities in Haiti.
