Tragedy struck the central Haiti town of Pont Sondé as at least 70 people, including three infants, were killed in a brutal gang attack, according to the United Nations Human Rights Office. The attack, carried out by members of the 'Gran Grif' gang using automatic rifles, resulted in the deaths of 10 women and three infants.
The incident took place in the Artibonite department, an important agricultural hub located about 50 miles north of Port-au-Prince. The UN highlighted the escalating gang violence in the region, with this attack being a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the local population.
Aside from the fatalities, at least 16 individuals sustained serious injuries during the assault. Two gang members were also injured in a confrontation with Haitian police. The gang further inflicted damage by setting fire to 45 houses and 34 vehicles, leading to the displacement of some residents.
Responding to the crisis, the Haitian Ministry of Health faced obstacles in reaching the affected area due to security concerns. Despite the difficulties, local institutions are providing care to the victims of the attack.
Prime Minister Garry Conille expressed condolences to the victims and assured that law enforcement would intensify its response to such heinous acts. The attack, described as an assault on the entire Haitian nation, drew condemnation from various quarters.
The 'Gran Grif' gang, identified as the most powerful group in Artibonite, has been under scrutiny for human rights violations. The gang's alleged leader, Luckson Elan, was recently sanctioned by the United States for grave offenses including kidnapping, murder, and violence against women and children.
Haiti has been grappling with a surge in gang violence, with the UN reporting a significant number of casualties this year alone. In a bid to restore order, foreign security forces joined the Multinational Security Support mission in June.
Following the recent attack, the UN called for increased support for the security mission and urged a thorough investigation into the incident. The focus is also on providing reparations to the victims and their families.
Prime Minister Conille delivered a resolute message to those behind the terror, emphasizing the nation's determination to uphold peace, security, and justice. The resolve of the Haitian people remains unbroken in the face of such atrocities.
