Protests took a violent turn in the Haitian capital, Port-Au-Prince as armed gangs exchanged gun fire with the national police.

Thousands of demonstrators marched to the national palace in the capital in a series of events that began as a peaceful movement. Six people are confirmed dead in the clashes and five were wounded as of Sunday night. Protests began across the country on the 215^th anniversary of Haitian independence.

Allegations of embezzlement by 14 government officials

Opposition groups are seeking the resignation of President Jovenel Moise for his failure to crack down on allegations of systemic embezzlement by at least 14 officials. Reports claim that vast amounts of money were embezzled from a Venezuelan program that provided the country with subsidized oil. Most of the corruption took place under the former presidency. The demonstration was the second major protest in a month’s time.

U.S. State Department advises security alert

The U.S. Travel State Department and the U.S. Embassy in Haiti have announced a security alert for the country, advising all citizens to shelter in and await further notice. The Canadian Embassy in Haiti has also announced that it is closed for today.

Demonstrations are expected to carry on through the week as the president is attempting to have dialogue with opposition groups.