The attack, which began on January 27, 2025, has already left at least 40 people dead, with the number expected to rise as authorities struggle to reach parts of the neighborhood.
Kenscoff, located in the foothills of a mountain range, is home to many prominent politicians, business leaders, and working-class families.
Mayor Jean Massillon of Kenscoff confirmed that the assault was carried out by the Viv Ansanm gang coalition, which is notorious for its violent tactics.
Gunmen went door-to-door, indiscriminately opening fire on residents, including pastors, teachers, and children.
“It’s been eight days since Kenscoff has been under attack,” Massillon stated, urging for reinforcements to help defend the area.
The violence has displaced over 1,660 people, leaving them homeless and in dire conditions.
Many of the victims were farmers who lived on the outskirts of the neighborhood, growing crops such as cabbage, carrots, and broccoli.
Jean Bertho Valmo, a 45-year-old farmer who fled the area, described the situation as catastrophic. “I invested everything I had in my crops.
Now, I have nothing,” Valmo said, highlighting the severe economic and emotional toll of the attack.
The gangs already control a significant portion of Port-au-Prince, and the United Nations has warned that the violence could soon spread further, overtaking the capital.
Local police, although making efforts to protect the public, have been criticized for their lack of resources.
A police union stated that the attack could have been prevented if the police had better equipment, such as helicopters and all-terrain vehicles, to navigate the mountainous terrain and respond more effectively to the crisis.
Gang violence has already displaced over 1 million people in Haiti, with no sign of improvement.
The international community continues to call for greater support to address the ongoing violence and provide aid to the displaced population.
Post a Comment
0Comments