The Office of the Spokesperson announced the designation of two groups, Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif, on May 2, 2025, highlighting their involvement in criminal activities in Haiti. Viv Ansanm emerged in September 2023 as a coalition of gangs formed by G-9 and G-Pép, two main gang factions in Port-au-Prince. The group has conducted coordinated attacks on critical infrastructure, including prisons, government buildings, and Haiti's main airport, which contributed to the resignation of former Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry.
Gran Grif is identified as the largest gang in Haiti's Artibonite department, an area significant for its rice fields. The group has been responsible for 80% of civilian deaths reported in the region since 2022. Gran Grif has also targeted the Haitian National Police and the United Nations-authorized Multinational Security Support mission, including a notable attack in February 2025 that resulted in the death of a Kenyan MSS mission officer.
"Terrorist designations expose and isolate entities and individuals, denying them access to the U.S. financial system and the resources they need to carry out attacks," the statement noted. The designation means that all property and interests of those designated that are within the United States or controlled by a U.S. person are now blocked, and U.S. persons are generally prohibited from conducting transactions with the sanctioned entities.
Engaging in certain transactions with these designated organizations can expose individuals, including American citizens, to the risk of secondary sanctions according to counterterrorism authorities. "It is a crime to knowingly provide material support or resources to these organizations, or to attempt or conspire to do so," the spokesperson emphasized. These designations are expected to assist law enforcement actions of other U.S. agencies and governments.
The actions were taken under section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, along with Executive Order 13224. These designations take effect upon their publication in the Federal Register. Those seeking removal from the list should consult the Department of State’s Delisting Guidance page.