Brutal Assault in Haiti Results in Loss of Life of 70 Individuals, Including Innocent Infants
A notorious group known as "Gran Grif" reportedly employed assault rifles to murder at least 70 individuals on a Thursday, with 10 females and 3 babies among the fatalities, as per the UN's account.
The bloodshed took place in Haiti's Artibonite department, a significant agricultural hub situated about 50 miles north of Port-au-Prince. Widespread gang violence in the region has persisted, according to the UN.
At least 16 people sustained severe injuries, two of which were gang members who were hit in a firefight with Haitian authorities, as per the UN's reports. The evildoers also set ablaze at least 45 homes and 34 vehicles, causing many to evacuate.
Health authorities in Haiti have mobilized to deal with the aftermath of the tragedy, but their efforts are hampered by the precarious security situation. “Despite the highly challenging security situation, the casualties from this assault are being attended to by local facilities,” the ministry stated.
Haiti's prime minister, Garry Conille, conveyed his sympathies to those affected by the attack and vowed that law enforcement would take stronger action.
“This monstrous crime, inflicted upon the defenceless women, men, and children, is an assault not only on its victims but the entire Haitian populace,” he said.
Gran Grif allegedly wields the most power in Artibonite, as per the UN. Last month, Luckson Elan, the gang's presumed leader, was publicly reprimanded by the United States for serious human rights violations such as kidnapping, murder, torture, and sexual assault of children and women.
Gang-related violence in Haiti has escalated in recent times, with attacks growing bolder and more brutal. At least 3,661 individuals have lost their lives since the start of this year, as per the UN's data.
Foreign security forces arrived in Haiti in June as part of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, which aimed to restore order and stability to the Caribbean nation.
In response to the recent bloodshed, the UN urged increased financial and logistical support for the MSS. It also called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the incident and compensation for the victims' families.
The Haitian National Police have yet to comment on the matter, as CNN reported.
“To those who sow terror, let me say this: you will not shake our resolve,” said Haiti's prime minister Conille. “You will not subdue this people, who have always fought for their dignity and freedom. We will never relinquish our right to live in peace, in safety, and in justice.”
The world has been shocked by the rampant violence in Haiti, with the Americas expressing concern over the situation. Gran Grif's control in Artibonite department has led to a surge in gang-related crimes, causing significant loss of life and property.
