At least 70 people lost their lives and 30 were injured in a devastating attack that occurred over the weekend in Haiti's Artibonite region, according to a human rights group. The collective, known as Défenseurs Plus, reported a significantly higher death toll than the initial estimates provided by the authorities. The police had initially stated that 16 people were killed and 10 injured, while a preliminary report from civil protection authorities suggested 17 deaths and 19 injuries. The United Nations secretary general strongly condemned the gang attack, emphasizing the gravity of the security situation in the country and calling for a thorough investigation.
The attack, which was carried out by armed members of the Gran Grif gang, took place in the Jean-Denis area at approximately 3 a.m. local time on Sunday. The violence has forced nearly 6,000 people to flee their homes, according to Défenseurs Plus. The group criticized the authorities for their lack of response, stating that it demonstrates a complete abdication of responsibility. The Artibonite department, a key agricultural area, has been plagued by gang conflict, which has spread beyond the capital, Port-au-Prince. The US has offered a reward of up to $3 million for information on the financial activities of the Gran Grif and Viv Ansanm groups, which have been designated as terrorist organizations.
The situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate, with over a million people displaced by the conflict with gangs and close to 20,000 reported killed since 2021. The death toll has been increasing every year, and the authorities have yet to arrest a major gang leader. The international community, including the UN and the US, has been working to support Haitian security forces in their efforts to combat the gangs. However, a lasting solution to the crisis remains elusive, and the people of Haiti continue to suffer the consequences of the ongoing violence.
The investigation into the attack is ongoing, and the authorities are working to provide assistance to those affected. The international community is also expected to continue its support for Haiti, as the country struggles to overcome the challenges posed by the gang violence.
