Haitian Government Addresses Concerns Over Foreign Mercenaries, Confirms Training Program with Studebaker Group

Amid rising rumors of foreign mercenaries in Haiti, the Ministry of Justice clarified on Monday that members of the U.S.-based security firm Studebaker Group are indeed in the country but solely to conduct training and mentoring programs aimed at strengthening the Haitian National Police (PNH).

According to the Ministry, this initiative does not involve any direct operational intervention from the firm’s personnel on Haitian soil.Garry Conille, a representative of the Presidential Transition Council (CPT), confirmed that a contract had been signed with Studebaker Group to provide specialized training for PNH officers.

He emphasized that this collaboration aims to equip Haiti’s law enforcement with advanced skills to address the nation’s escalating security issues independently, without involving foreign-led operations.

Despite these assurances, the presence of Studebaker Group personnel has raised concerns within civil society.

Some worry that relying on a foreign security firm could undermine the autonomy of the Haitian police force. However, the government reiterated that Studebaker Group’s role is strictly limited to capacity-building and emphasized that all necessary security protocols are in place to uphold national sovereignty.

As security challenges continue, Haiti’s leadership faces the delicate task of seeking international expertise without compromising self-governance. The administration maintains that strengthening PNH capacity is vital, particularly as the nation confronts severe and ongoing security threats.