Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, has witnessed a dramatic surge in gang violence since November 11, with over 150 fatalities reported in the past week alone.
This escalation brings the total death toll for 2024 to a staggering 4,500, according to the United Nations.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, expressed deep concern, stating, "The intensifying violence in Port-au-Prince signals a potential descent into further chaos. Immediate action is essential to halt the gang warfare."
The violence stems from a coalition of gangs, Viv Ansanm, seeking dominance over the city. Armed groups now control approximately 80% of Port-au-Prince, cutting off residents' access to essential routes and services. Despite deploying a Kenyan-led international force, local law enforcement remains outgunned.
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Over the past week, coordinated gang attacks have killed 150 people, injured 92, and displaced 20,000. The UN noted that over half of the casualties occurred during confrontations between gangs and police. Alarmingly, mob lynchings are also on the rise, highlighting the population’s desperation.
Authorities reported some progress this week, with police and civilian defense groups killing 28 gang members during overnight operations.
However, vigilante justice has also led to brutal incidents, such as last year’s stoning and burning of suspected gang members.
The ongoing violence has intensified Haiti’s humanitarian crisis. An estimated 700,000 people, half of children, are now internally displaced. Food and water shortages and disease outbreaks are overwhelming the collapsing healthcare system.
"The rule of law must prevail over gang violence," Turk urged, emphasizing the need for decisive action to restore order and protect civilians.
The UN continues to call for international and local efforts to address Haiti's growing insecurity and humanitarian challenges.
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