State Department Targets Lawful Residents with Alleged Ties to Haitian Gangs
Using a rarely invoked terrorism statute, DHS will pursue deportations of U.S. residents linked to Viv Ansanm, a designated foreign terror group.
WASHINGTON — The United States will begin deportation proceedings against certain lawful permanent residents accused of supporting Viv Ansanm, a designated Haitian foreign terrorist organization, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced last week.
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The move, authorized under Section 237(a)(4)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, targets individuals believed to have collaborated with Haitian gang leaders affiliated with Viv Ansanm, a group the U.S. government says plays a central role in the escalating violence and instability in Haiti.
Rubio said the affected individuals, though granted legal residency in the U.S., have “potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences” for the country due to their alleged activities in support of the terrorist organization. No specific names or case details were released in the announcement.
The State Department’s determination enables the Department of Homeland Security to pursue removal actions against those identified. The administration’s decision underscores its broader policy of denying immigration benefits to individuals with ties to terrorism or foreign criminal organizations.
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The announcement comes amid worsening conditions in Haiti, where gang violence has paralyzed infrastructure, displaced thousands, and disrupted governance. The United States has increased its engagement on regional security, including through sanctions, law enforcement coordination, and humanitarian aid.
Rubio described the deportation action as part of the Trump administration’s commitment to “protecting the American people, advancing our national security interests, and promoting regional security and stability.”
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