SUMMARY

The 400 Mawozo gang consolidated its power in Croix-des-Bouquets, a crucial town north of Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital. Its activities were concentrated primarily in that area, but the gang had also established a presence in the neighboring communes of Ganthier, Thomassseau, and Fonds-Verettes. The gang expanded its influence to Canaan, a suburb in Croix-des-Bouquets that connected to the main route leading to the northern part of the Hispaniola island.

The largest active gang in Haiti, 400 Mawozo’s membership was known for engaging in various criminal activities, demonstrating significant operational capabilities. The gang's extensive network included individuals involved in various illegal activities, contributing to their significant influence and reach within the region. They specialized in collective kidnapping, business extortion, hijacking trucks, and illegal trafficking along the border with the Dominican Republic. Their control over key areas and routes, such as Canaan, allowed them to maintain and expand their criminal enterprises effectively.

The leadership of the gang was centered around two individuals, Joseph Wilson -alias Lanmò San Jou- and Germine Joly -alias Yonyon-. Lanmò San Jou, as the main leader, directed the gang’s activities and strategies, while Yonyon held a crucial role in the gang’s hierarchy (despite being imprisoned since 2018).

Forming an alliance with G-Pep (one of the two biggest gang coalitions in Haiti along with the G9) significantly enhanced 400 Mawozo’s power and operational capabilities. This collaboration allowed both groups to coordinate their actions more effectively and expand their influence across several territories in Haiti.

The gang 400 Mawozo has been involved in the non-state and one-sided categories of UCDP organized violence.