In a recent development, gangs in Haiti launched a new attack on the capital city of Port-au-Prince, specifically targeting the upscale community of Pétionville. The assault, led by the Viv Ansanm group under the leadership of former elite police officer Jimmy Chérizier, resulted in a clash with residents who bravely fought alongside the police.
Reports indicate that at least 28 suspected gang members were killed during the attack, with hundreds of munitions seized by the authorities. Eyewitnesses revealed that some of the gunmen were subjected to brutal retaliation by residents, including decapitation and mutilation of their bodies.
The pre-dawn assault commenced as two trucks carrying suspected gang members entered Pétionville, blocking the main entrance to the community. Chérizier had previously threatened reprisals against hotels in the area where politicians or 'oligarchs' might seek refuge.
Furthermore, the violence extended to the neighboring community of Canapé Vert and other areas, with residents recounting harrowing experiences of gunfire and armed individuals roaming the streets. The recent attack follows a series of coordinated assaults by Viv Ansanm, including incidents targeting government infrastructure and the main international airport.
Notably, gang violence has forced over 20,000 individuals to flee Port-au-Prince in recent days, as the situation continues to escalate. The United Nations reports that gangs currently control 85% of the capital, with ongoing efforts to expand their territorial influence.
These incidents have intensified since the arrival of police officers from Kenya leading a U.N.-backed mission to address the violence in Haiti. The U.S. government has advocated for a U.N. peacekeeping force to replace the current mission due to resource constraints and staffing challenges.
The recent attack on Pétionville underscores the persistent security challenges facing Haiti and the urgent need for coordinated efforts to restore stability and protect the population from gang violence.
