A devastating gang attack near Haiti’s capital has left at least 47 people dead and more than 50 others kidnapped. The attack occurred in the community of Kenscoff, nestled in the hills above Port-au-Prince, and has been described as a major test for the government, police, and international mission.
The gang leader, who identified himself as Izo 2, has threatened to kill the hostages if authorities harm any gang members. In a video posted on social media, he warned the director of Haiti’s national police, Vladimir Paraison, not to use drones to repel gangs in the area. The gang leader is believed to be running a franchise cell for other gangs in Kenscoff.
The attack may be a show of force and a message to Haiti’s government and police as the country prepares to hold general elections on December 13. The gangs are saying that they can attack at will and succeed, despite claims of protection from the government and police.
At least five of the 47 people killed were children, according to the UN integrated office in Haiti. Kenscoff’s mayor, Jean Massillon, said two government employees were among those killed, including his cousin who served as his security detail. Members of the powerful gang coalition, Viv Ansanm, also set fire to 25 homes.
The attack has raised concerns about the government’s ability to provide protection and has sparked accusations that the police were not adequately prepared. The police have rejected these accusations, but the incident has highlighted the ongoing struggle with gang violence in Haiti.
Armed men control an estimated 70% of Port-au-Prince and swaths of land in Haiti’s central region and beyond. Gang violence has displaced a record 1.5 million people across Haiti, and more than 3,050 people were reported killed from January to June, according to UN statistics.
