CITY, State (Fox News) — U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince, Haiti alerts citizens of ongoing security operations and heavy gunfire in the area.

## Situation in Haiti
The embassy warned U.S. citizens of security operations north and south of the embassy and in Croix-de-Bouquets. Armed gangs control parts of Port-au-Prince, with “400 Mawozo” gang leader Joly Germine sentenced to life in prison for abducting 16 Americans.

## Recent Events
U.S. Marines exchanged gunfire with suspected gang members in Haiti, according to officials. The Department of State maintains a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Haiti due to kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and limited health care.

## Concerns
Officials urge U.S. citizens to avoid the area and monitor local media for updates amid the ongoing security operations in Haiti. Residents run past burning tires in Port-au-Prince as violence escalates.