In a dramatic maritime confrontation, Haitian security forces successfully repelled a significant armed assault on commercial shipping near Port-au-Prince on December 23, 2025. The incident unfolded when a Coast Guard patrol vessel, providing security for a convoy of 13 merchant sailboats en route to La Gonâve Island, came under coordinated attack from five hostile watercraft manned by heavily armed combatants in the Gressier sector.
Responding to the intensity of the assault, Haitian authorities immediately deployed additional naval assets including REMBO-class patrol boats as reinforcement. The ensuing engagement evolved into sustained combat operations lasting several hours as Coast Guard units battled the determined assailants.
The counteroperation yielded significant tactical successes for government forces. Naval personnel neutralized one terrorist vessel through destruction and captured another intact. Multiple attackers were eliminated during the exchange of fire, though official casualty counts remain undisclosed.
Tragically, the conflict claimed the life of one civilian sailor aboard the escorted merchant convoy. No Coast Guard personnel sustained injuries during the extended engagement, according to official statements.
The decisive military action resulted in the complete restoration of maritime security in the affected zone. Coast Guard vessels maintained protective escort duties throughout the incident, ensuring the safe passage of commercial traffic. Normal maritime commerce has since resumed operations without further disruption.