Is Haiti's Most Wanted Gang Leader Finally Down? Izo Critically Injured in Drone Strike, Sources Say

By The Haitian Pulse | June 1, 2025

Port-au-Prince, Haiti — Is the reign of Johnson André—better known as “Izo,” the elusive and brutal leader of the 5 Segond gang—finally coming to an end?

According to credible sources, Izo was critically injured last week during a powerful drone strike launched by Haitian security forces in one of the most aggressive operations to date. Reports indicate that he sustained first-degree burns across an entire side of his body. His condition is reportedly critical, and his whereabouts remain unknown.

Deadly Strike, Major Blow

The drone attack, part of a coordinated anti-gang campaign, targeted gang-held zones in Port-au-Prince and left at least 30 gang affiliates dead and dozens more seriously wounded. These kamikaze drones, a new tool in Haiti’s security arsenal, are being hailed as a game-changer in the state’s effort to reclaim control over lawless areas.

Authorities have yet to confirm Izo’s status officially, but if the reports are accurate, this would mark a major blow to Haiti’s most feared gang network.

The Blood-Stained Empire of Izo

Izo has long stood at the center of Haiti’s gang crisis. Through a web of kidnappings, drug trafficking, extortion, and alleged organ trade, his syndicate has amassed millions of dollars, creating a parallel power structure in parts of the capital. Victims have ranged from ordinary citizens to foreign nationals, prompting international outrage.

In 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice indicted him for the kidnapping and torture of a U.S. citizen, and both the United Nations and the United States imposed sanctions targeting his assets and movement.

Drone Warfare: Turning the Tide?

The use of kamikaze drones represents a new level of sophistication in the government’s war against gangs. Last week’s successful strike has ignited cautious hope that security forces may be turning the tide—delivering results without escalating civilian harm.

However, gang retaliation, power vacuums, and deeply entrenched systems of corruption mean that lasting peace is still far from guaranteed.

A Critical Moment for Haiti

If Izo is indeed incapacitated, questions loom:
Will this fracture the 5 Segond gang's leadership?
Will rival groups step in to fill the void?
Or is this a rare window for real progress in reclaiming Haiti’s sovereignty?

Many Haitians express growing exhaustion with hearing names like Izo dominating the news—what they long for is the return of safe streets and peace in their neighborhoods,” reports suggest.

We Will Keep You Informed

This is a developing story, and The Haitian Pulse is committed to following every angle. As we await confirmation on Izo’s condition and next steps from Haitian authorities, we encourage our readers to stay engaged.

What do you think? Does this strike signal a turning point—or just a temporary win?
Join the conversation below. Your voice matters.

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