Five Americans arrested in Haiti on conspiracy charges

Five Americans have been arrested in Haiti on suspicion of conspiracy as the Haitian government tamps down on corruption in the country.

The country’s foreign minister, Bocchit Edmond, confirmed the arrests of five U.S. citizens, one Haitian and two other foreign nationals, CNN reports. The identities of the arrested persons were not immediately released.

{mosads}The arrests come after the State Department issued a “do not travel” advisory for the country last week amid escalating anti-government protests and rampant crime.

“Protests, tire burning and road blockages are frequent and unpredictable,” the State Department advised Thursday.

“Violent crime, such as armed robbery, is common. Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents, and emergency response, including ambulance service, is limited or non-existent.”

Haitian Prime Minister Jean-Henry Céant reportedly addressed the country’s residents Saturday, vowing to fight corruption among government officials.

“Corruption is one of the biggest problems. We need to fight corruption,” he said in the address, according to CNN.

Protesters have reportedly called for Céant’s resignation, as well as the resignation of its president, Jovenel Moise. The country is currently battling record inflation as well as allegations of corruption surrounding top officials.