How a Former Navy SEAL Became Involved in Controversial Development in Haiti
A former Navy SEAL with ties to Trumpworld figures and a nonprofit organization became involved in a controversial development project in Haiti. The project involved taking control of a paradisiacal island and building a resort that aimed to rival those in the neighboring Dominican Republic. However, the project faced opposition from the island's residents and was halted due to corruption and political instability in Haiti.
Former Navy SEAL's Involvement in Haiti
A former Navy SEAL, Dave Lopez, initially went to Haiti with the mission of leading raid and rescue operations to recover a missing American child. However, he became entangled in the country's politics and ended up getting involved in a controversial development project. Lopez had affiliations with organizations such as Operation Underground Railroad (O.U.R.), which aimed to combat child trafficking.
Lopez developed connections with prominent figures, including Tim Ballard, the founder of O.U.R., and politicians in Haiti, securing him power over the island of Ile-à-Vache. However, there were allegations that the operations conducted by O.U.R. were not as effective as claimed, and the organization faced criticism for its tactics.
Despite the controversies surrounding O.U.R., Lopez and his partners secured a deal with the Haitian government to develop Ile-à-Vache into a multi-billion-dollar resort. The project aimed to stimulate Haiti's economy through tourism but faced opposition from the island's residents.
Controversy and Corruption Surrounding the Development
The development of Ile-à-Vache faced allegations of corruption. There were claims that Haitian politicians, including former President Michel Martelly, were involved in the project and tried to benefit financially from it. The project also received financial support from Venezuela's PetroCaribe program.
The native population of Ile-à-Vache, who had lived on the island for generations, were not consulted about the development plans. Their homes, gardens, and property were affected by the construction, leading to protests and clashes with police.
The project eventually stalled due to local opposition and widespread corruption in Haiti. Billions in foreign aid meant for the country's recovery following an earthquake had reportedly disappeared without achieving significant results.
Involvement of Dave Lopez and His Associates
Dave Lopez, along with his associates, including Fernand Sajous and Brent Woodson, formed a company called Watersmark S.A. to carry out the development project on Ile-à-Vache. Lopez claimed to have secured $2.5 billion in financing for the project and also highlighted his connections with the Haitian government and potential investors from the United States.
However, the actual progress of the development has been limited. Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the political instability in Haiti, including the assassination of President Jovenel Moise, have hindered the project's implementation. The future of Ile-à-Vache and its residents remains uncertain.
