In a perplexing sequence of events, the disappearance of a hotel manager and a cache of rifles has led to investigations by both the Haiti National Police and the FBI. The situation has raised suspicions of a potential cover-up linked to rogue police forces.
Central to this mystery is Patrice Miot Jacquet, a dual Haitian-U.S. citizen and former U.S. Navy serviceman. Jacquet, who had taken a job in Haiti as a hotel director, vanished in December after reportedly being detained by Haiti National police. At the time, he was also working as a logistics manager for Studebaker Group, a U.S.-based security contractor hired to combat armed gangs in Haiti.
The chain of events began with the disappearance of Jacquet’s cousin, Steeve Duroseau, a Haitian police officer working with Studebaker. Duroseau’s disappearance rattled Jacquet, especially after learning that weapons had been stolen from his armored BMW. Oddly, Duroseau was allegedly part of the group behind the theft, according to Jacquet’s groundskeeper.
Among the stolen items were at least nine rifles issued to the police, intended for Studebaker contractors, some of whom are ex-special forces. These weapons were stored in a safe house in the upscale Vivy Mitchell neighborhood.
Investigation Stalled
Following the theft, Jacquet received a mysterious phone call for a meeting. As he drove through Vivy Mitchell, his car was ambushed with gunfire, injuring a female passenger. Jacquet was reportedly seen being placed in a police vehicle, but has not been heard from since.
A Facebook post shared by Jacquet’s friends and family suggests he might have been kidnapped, though there have been no ransom demands. Frustrated relatives have struggled to get attention from authorities, with one relative stating, “We’ve never heard of this case.”
Despite initial dismissals, the case is now receiving more scrutiny amid concerns of a cover-up and the possible silencing of witnesses. Justice Minister Patrick Pélissier confirmed an investigation is underway, and a person has been arrested—reportedly the groundskeeper.
Haitian Police Called
Jacquet had been instrumental in supporting Studebaker’s mission in Haiti, helping contractors navigate Port-au-Prince and liaise with authorities. The sudden firing of Prime Minister Garry Conille led to Studebaker’s abrupt withdrawal from Haiti. The company stated that all equipment was accounted for and transferred to Haitian police before their departure.
The Haitian National Police have not commented on the case. However, two individuals associated with a new joint task force have been questioned, though there is no evidence linking them to Jacquet or the weapons.
Before his disappearance, Jacquet had mentioned a potential intelligence-gathering role with the new government. Some speculate this might have made him a target.
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