Tehran: At least 70 people were killed and more than 30 wounded in a gang "massacre" in Haiti's Artibonite region, according to two rights organizations, as nearly 6,000 residents fled attacks on the towns of Jean Denis and Pont Sonde.
According to Anadolu Agency, Garry Doriscat, communications officer for Defenders Plus, described the attacks as "flagrant violations of the right to life and security" and accused the Haitian government of "revolting passivity" that amounted to "blatant complicity." Doriscat, in a statement with Kolektif pou Sove Latibonit (KSL), reported that more than 50 homes were reduced to ashes, with displaced families fleeing to surrounding towns in "inhumane destitution."
The two organizations called for immediate intervention to protect civilians, emphasizing that impunity could "no longer be the state's response to the bloodshed." Haiti's National Police reported that officers, aided by Kenyan Gang Suppression Force personnel, intervened Sunday morning after the "Gran Grif" gang attacked Jean Denis. The gang had dug trenches and blocked roads to delay police, allowing time to kill and burn before fleeing. Police confirmed 16 deaths and 10 wounded in their official count, significantly lower than the toll reported by rights groups.
Security forces have since restored order and are continuing operations to pursue remaining gang members in the surrounding areas. The massacre is the latest episode of violence in a country plagued by gang activity and political instability for years. The crisis escalated following the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021, after which rival armed groups expanded their control, seizing an estimated 80% of the capital, Port-au-Prince, and leading to the resignation of then-Prime Minister Ariel Henry in April 2024.
Haitian businessman Alix Didier Fils-Aime was sworn in as interim prime minister in November 2024, replacing Garry Conille during a government reorganization amid the worsening security situation. Around 5.5 million people require immediate humanitarian assistance, as the country struggles with civil unrest, disease, economic collapse, and near-total insecurity.