External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar confirmed the launch of 'Operation Indravati' through a social media post, announcing India's initiative to evacuate its citizens from the violence-torn Haiti to the Dominican Republic.

Amidst the turmoil engulfing Haiti, armed gangs have seized control of its streets, leading to a virtual disappearance of the government. As part of the ongoing operation, authorities successfully evacuated 12 Indian nationals to safety.

Jaishankar, in a statement on X, announced India's commencement of Operation Indravati to repatriate its citizens from Haiti to the Dominican Republic. He expressed gratitude to the Government of the Dominican Republic for their assistance and confirmed the successful evacuation of 12 Indian nationals. Jaishankar reiterated India's unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of its citizens abroad.

During a weekly press briefing on March 15, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, affirmed India's readiness to evacuate its citizens from Haiti amidst the ongoing crisis. He stated that if necessary, evacuation measures would be implemented, as reported by ANI.

Recent violent attacks have prompted a state of emergency in Haiti, where gang warfare has plunged the Caribbean nation into chaos. The US embassy has evacuated non-essential staff, and the Haitian government has declared a state of emergency.

Prime Minister Ariel Henry resigned on March 12 while he was stranded outside the country. His resignation follows a series of attacks by gangs on airports, police stations, and prisons. Additionally, thousands of jail inmates have fled as a result of these attacks.

According to the New York Post, Jimmy Cherizier, also known as 'Babekyou' or 'Barbecue', is a 47-year-old former police officer armed with a rifle. He leads the infamous 'G9 and Family' gang and is currently regarded as the most influential figure in Haiti.

The prevailing disorder has led to extensive displacement, with tens of thousands compelled to leave their residences, contributing to the already substantial population of internally displaced individuals as a result of gang-related violence.

The UN reports that gangs now control 80% of Haiti's capital, with ongoing conflicts persisting in the remaining areas.

In response to the violence and theft occurring in the Caribbean nation, authorities have established a control room and emergency hotline to facilitate the safe departure of Indian citizens from Haiti.

During a press conference, ANI reported that Randhir Jaiswal announced the establishment of a control room at the Ministry of External Affairs along with emergency hotlines.

Image source: India Today