Haiti in turmoil as thousands flee gang violence

Haiti faces a dire security and humanitarian crisis as residents flee Port-au-Prince to escape escalating gang violence and gunfire

Haiti’s worsening humanitarian and security crisis is unfolding dramatically as people fleeing the capital, Port-au-Prince, arrive in Cap-Haitien, their faces etched with the trauma of their journey.

These travelers face life-threatening risks, including gang violence and gunfire.

“It took us several hours longer than it should as we had to reroute from the gang checkpoints along the way, and there was gunfire,” a passenger recounted, highlighting the dangerous nature of their escape.

Gang violence has escalated sharply, compelling the resignation of Haiti’s Prime Minister and displacing over 360,000 people. Many now seek refuge in Cap-Haitien, a city in northern Haiti, which, despite its struggles with poverty, disorder, and corruption, remains relatively free from gang violence.

Phanel Pierre, who once thrived as a businessman, embodies the devastating impact of this crisis. After gangs destroyed his business and home, he now lives in poverty, a stark contrast to his former life.

“This is just 2% of the life I used to live,” Pierre lamented.

The political situation is equally tumultuous. Former Senate President Youri Latortue, who is currently under U.S. sanctions for alleged ties to criminal activities, denies accusations of corruption.

He criticizes the outgoing administration, stating, “The government works with the gangs. This is the problem. During the past three or four years, the government has always, always worked with the gangs. So, the police can’t do anything.”

Haiti’s humanitarian situation is critical, with hunger intensifying and famine-like conditions looming for hundreds of thousands. The closure of Haiti’s main international airport and land crossings complicates aid efforts, as traders at the Dominican Republic border face significant challenges bringing essential supplies into Haiti.

In response to the security crisis, Pierre advocates for a long-term intervention strategy similar to El Salvador’s anti-gang approach. With one of Haiti’s most formidable gangs, Unite Village de Dieu, showcasing its armed readiness to confront state and international forces, the call for a substantial and sustained global response becomes increasingly urgent.

Source: Newsroom