Armed men struck again in Haiti’s Artibonite region on Tuesday, following a weekend attack that left at least 70 people dead and numerous injuries. Human rights groups reported the death toll much higher than official estimates, which placed it around 16.
The National Network for the Defence of Human Rights (RNDDH) stated that some 30 more people were wounded, including infants, pregnant women, teenagers, and an 80-year-old man. The attackers had withdrawn from Jean-Denis on Monday but repositioned themselves in Pont Benoit, attempting to launch another offensive in Marchand Dessalines.
Videos shared online showed members of the Kokorat San Ras gang distributing cash in Marchand Dessalines. Gran Grif, a terrorist group designated by the US and Dominican Republic, had been waiting for police presence during the day before launching attacks at night.
Local self-defense brigades withdrew as they lacked firepower to hold off the gangs. The police response was limited, with armoured vehicles staying just hours before withdrawing and returning on Monday. Most of these vehicles were out of service due to battery issues or awaiting authorization from Port-au-Prince.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime discussed an expanded UN mission with a delegation, acknowledging the need for more equipment, troops, and funds. The US-based IJDH criticized state and international measures for prioritizing short-term militarized responses over aid and addressing underlying issues.