U.S. Sanctions Haiti’s Ex-President Martelly, Citing Drug Trafficking

UNITED STATES – The U.S. has imposed sanctions on Haiti’s former President, Michel Joseph Martelly, over drug trafficking allegations, accusing him of playing a significant role in perpetuating the ongoing crisis in the country.

Martelly served as President from 2011 to 2016, taking office after the devastating 2010 earthquake.

The U.S. State Department said he also worked with Haitian drug traffickers, sponsored multiple gangs and engaged in laundering of illicit drug proceeds.

As part of Tuesday’s action, U.S. financial institutions are barred from making loans or providing credit to Martelly, among other restrictions.

Martelly is a legal U.S. resident who currently resides in Miami.