The Salvadoran contingent is expected to reinforce the U.N.-authorized Gang Suppression Force and assist in efforts to locate four of its personnel who disappeared after an ambush.
By The Haitian Tribune Staff
October 23, 2026
PORT-AU-PRINCE — Approximately 450 Salvadoran military personnel had arrived in Port-au-Prince by Friday, joining the search for four Salvadorans who went missing after an armed attack earlier this week, according to a source cited by Haiti’s Le Nouvelliste.
The additional personnel are also expected to strengthen El Salvador’s contribution to the U.N.-authorized Gang Suppression Force (GSF), the source said. A plane carrying about 100 more soldiers reportedly arrived Friday evening, bringing the Salvadoran presence to roughly 450.
The four missing personnel are aviation technicians who were assigned to the international force. Their vehicle came under attack Sunday in the Santo area of Croix-des-Bouquets as they were reportedly returning to their base. Their whereabouts remain unknown, and officials have not confirmed whether they are alive or being held by armed groups.
El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele has demanded that the men be returned alive and unharmed. He said his country had launched an operation to bring them home, but had not initially explained whether that meant additional troops would be sent to Haiti.
The newly reported deployment suggests that El Salvador is increasing its presence as the search continues. The exact number of troops assigned specifically to the search, and the details of their operational role, were not immediately clear.
The GSF was established to support efforts to curb gang violence in Haiti. Its planned strength is 5,500 personnel, though the force has faced delays in reaching that level. The U.N. Security Council recently renewed its authorization for six months.
The attack and the expanded Salvadoran deployment underscore the risks facing international personnel operating in areas where armed groups hold significant influence. Haitian authorities had not publicly provided further details about the missing men or the latest troop arrivals by Friday.
Le Nouvelliste’s source said they were not aware of any U.S. soldiers being present in Haiti in connection with the deployment.
By the Haitian Tribune Staff
