A violent gang attack in Haiti’s Artibonite region left at least 70 people dead, with over 6,000 forced to flee their homes. The Gran Grif gang leader claimed responsibility for the massacre as retaliation for civilian passivity while his soldiers were killed. The attack led to widespread shock in a country accustomed to violence. The U.N. migration agency reported thousands fleeing to nearby towns for shelter.
Local authorities stated that gang members set fire to homes and vehicles during the deadly attack, which is one of the worst in recent years in Haiti. Prime Minister Garry Conille condemned the killings and promised security force reinforcements in the area. The conflict in Haiti has been worsening with armed gangs expanding their control, leading to hunger and displacement of thousands. The lack of international support and assistance has exacerbated the situation.
The gang’s brutal attack left many victims shot in the head, and entire families were wiped out. Rights organizations warned of a higher death toll and criticized the lack of effective state intelligence to prevent such massacres. The Artibonite region has seen significant violence, with residents calling for increased protection.
The World Food Programme attributed food shortages and rising prices in Haiti to gangs extorting farmers and displacing workers. The U.N. has called for more support for the mission in Haiti to address the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis. The U.N. estimated thousands of deaths due to gang violence in Haiti since the beginning of the year, with guns mainly trafficked from the U.S. Nearby countries continue to deport migrants back to Haiti, adding to the challenges faced by the country.
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