Haiti's Deadly Gang Violence Claims 70 Lives, Including Women and Infants

Haiti's Deadly Gang Violence Claims 70 Lives, Including Women and Infants

A devastating gang attack in Haiti's Artibonite department has left at least 70 people dead, including 10 women and three infants, according to the United Nations. The brutal assault, carried out by members of the notorious Gran Grif gang, occurred in the town of Pont Sondé, a vital agricultural center approximately 50 miles north of Port-au-Prince.

Gang violence has continued to spread in Haiti, with attacks becoming increasingly brazen and violent. The UN reports that at least 3,661 people have been killed since January this year. The Gran Grif gang, led by alleged leader Luckson Elan, has been sanctioned by the United States for serious human rights abuses, including kidnapping, murder, beating, and raping of women and children.

Thursday's attack has left a grim toll. At least 70 people are dead, including 10 women and three infants. Sixteen people were seriously injured, including two gang members hit during an exchange of fire with Haitian police. Additionally, 45 houses and 34 vehicles were set ablaze, forcing residents to flee. The International Organization for Migration reported that over 6,000 people have been displaced.

Haiti's Prime Minister Garry Conille condemned the attack, offering condolences to those affected and vowing to "step up" law enforcement response. "This odious crime, perpetrated against defenseless women, men, and children, is not only an attack on these victims but on the entire Haitian nation," he stated.

The Haitian Ministry of Health has mobilized to respond to the incident, despite facing challenges accessing the site due to the tense security situation. "Despite an extremely difficult security context, the victims of this attack are being cared for by local institutions," the ministry said.

The UN has called for additional financial and logistical aid for the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, deployed in Haiti since June to provide security and restore law and order. The organization also demands a "prompt and thorough investigation" into the attack and "reparations for the victims and their families."

As Haiti struggles to contain the escalating gang violence, the international community must come together to support the Caribbean nation in its quest for peace and stability. The ongoing violence has sparked widespread concern, with many urging swift action to protect civilians and address the root causes of the conflict.

The situation in Haiti remains dire, with thousands displaced and many more living in fear of gang violence. The international community's response will be crucial in shaping the country's future and ensuring the safety of its citizens.