Gang Attack in Haiti Kills 70 People Including Infants
A horrific gang attack in central Haiti has resulted in the deaths of at least 70 people, including 10 women and three infants. The attack occurred in the town of Pont-Sonde, located approximately 60 miles northwest of Port-au-Prince, the nation’s capital. The Gran Grif gang, which operates in the Artibonite region, is responsible for the massacre.
The United Nations Human Rights Office reported that gang members firing automatic rifles also set fire to at least 45 houses and 34 vehicles, forcing thousands of residents to flee. At least 3,000 people have been displaced by the attack, and 16 individuals sustained serious injuries, including two gang members who were shot during a confrontation with Haitian law enforcement.
Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille strongly condemned the attack, labeling it an “atrocious crime against defenseless women, men, and children.” He emphasized that the perpetrators will be hunted down and brought to justice.
The international community has expressed horror over the incident, with the United Nations secretary-general urging enhanced international security support for Haiti. The multinational security support mission, which includes police from Kenya, Jamaica, and Belize, has been deployed to assist the Haitian National Police in subduing armed gangs.
