By Trend News Line 2024-03-19 04:30:00.
Violent Gang Attacks Rock Haiti’s Capital
In a shocking turn of events, two upscale neighborhoods in Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, were targeted by violent gangs in a brutal rampage that left at least a dozen people dead in surrounding areas. The communities of Laboule and Thomassin were plunged into chaos as gunmen looted homes in the early hours of Monday morning, forcing residents to flee for their lives. Despite a surge in violent gang attacks across the city since February 29, these neighborhoods had remained relatively peaceful until this devastating incident.
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Gruesome Scenes Unfold
An Associated Press photographer witnessed the aftermath of the attacks, with the bodies of at least 12 men strewn across the streets of Pétionville, located just below Laboule and Thomassin. Shocked crowds gathered around the victims, with one man lying face up on the street surrounded by a scattered deck of cards. Another victim was found face down inside a pick-up truck, known as a “tap-tap,” which operates as a taxi. The harrowing scene was made even more heartbreaking as a woman collapsed upon learning that a relative of hers had been killed.
Outcry for Justice
As the reality of the violence sank in, one Haitian man could not contain his emotions and cried out for justice, declaring, “Abuse! This is abuse!” He implored his fellow citizens to wake up to the atrocities being committed in their country. An ambulance arrived to collect the victims, but for many, it was already too late. The community of Pétionville was left reeling from the senseless loss of life, with residents vowing to clean up the streets before children walked by on their way to school and vendors arrived to start their day.
Gang Violence Shows No Signs of Abating
Despite Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s recent announcement of his resignation once a transitional presidential council is established, gang violence in Haiti shows no signs of slowing down. Gangs have long opposed Henry, blaming him for exacerbating poverty in the country. However, critics argue that the gangs are merely seeking to seize power for themselves or for unknown Haitian politicians. The recent attacks have only heightened concerns about the escalating violence gripping the nation.
Power Outages Add to the Chaos
In a further blow to the already beleaguered nation, Haiti’s power company reported that four substations in the capital and elsewhere had been destroyed, leaving large swathes of Port-au-Prince without electricity. The Cite Soleil slum, Croix-des-Bouquets community, and even a hospital were plunged into darkness as criminals seized vital equipment and documents. The power outages have only compounded the challenges facing Haiti as it struggles to cope with the ongoing violence and instability.
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International Assistance Delayed
Efforts to combat gang violence in Haiti have been hampered by delays in the deployment of a U.N.-backed Kenyan police force. The East African country has announced that it will wait until the transitional council is established before sending assistance. Meanwhile, Caribbean leaders are working to create the council, but internal squabbles and political disagreements have hindered progress. As Haiti grapples with the fallout from the latest wave of violence, the international community is being called upon to provide much-needed support and assistance..
gangs unleash attacks upscale areas haiti capital dozen killed nearby.
