Gang Attack in Haiti: At Least 47 Dead, Dozens Kidnapped

At least 47 people were killed and more than 50 kidnapped in an attack by armed gangs in the Kenscoff area near Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince. A gang leader threatened to kill the hostages if the police intervene.

Bloody Raid in Kenscoff

The town of Kenscoff, located near Haiti's capital Port-au-Prince and previously known as a calm region, was subjected to a coordinated attack by armed gangs over the weekend. According to United Nations data, at least 47 people, including at least 5 children, lost their lives in the attack.

Kenscoff Mayor Jean Massillon announced that two government employees, including his cousin who worked as his bodyguard, were among those who died. It was also reported that members of the Viv Ansanm gang coalition, designated as a terrorist organization by the US, set fire to 25 houses in the region.

Hostage Threat and Security Test

A gang leader identifying himself as Izo 2 warned Haiti's National Police Chief Vladimir Paraison in a video published on social media. The gang leader claimed he would kill the more than 50 hostages in their possession if security forces use drones or harm gang members.

Security experts state that this attack is a major security test for the Haitian government, the police force, and the United Nations-backed international mission. Experts emphasize that gangs aim through such actions to divide already limited police resources and put on a display of force ahead of the general elections the country plans to hold on December 13.

General Security Crisis in Haiti

Across Haiti, armed groups are estimated to control approximately 70 percent of the capital Port-au-Prince and vast swathes of land in the central parts of the country. According to United Nations statistics, a record 1.5 million people have been displaced due to escalating violence in the country.