October 7th 2024.
In the aftermath of a brutal attack by heavily armed gang members in central Haiti, nearly 6300 individuals have been forced to flee their homes. As reported by the United Nations' migration agency, at least 70 people lost their lives in the attack. The International Organisation for Migration shared in a report that almost 90% of those displaced have sought shelter with relatives, while 12% have found temporary refuge in other locations, such as a school.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning in Pont-Sondé, was a terrifying experience for the residents. Many were forced to leave their homes in the middle of the night. One survivor, 60-year-old Sonise Mirano, shared her harrowing experience of fleeing with her children in the dark. She and hundreds of others are currently camping out in a park in the nearby city of Saint-Marc.
The streets of Pont-Sondé were filled with lifeless bodies following the attack in the Artibonite region. According to Bertide Harace, spokesperson for the Commission for Dialogue, Reconciliation and Awareness to Save the Artibonite, many of the victims were shot in the head. Initially, it was believed that 20 people had lost their lives, but as activists and government officials searched the area, they found more bodies.
Among the victims were a young mother, her newborn baby, and a midwife. The shocking news of this massacre has rocked the nation and sparked outrage from leaders. Prime Minister Garry Conille, while visiting Saint-Marc on Friday, promised that the perpetrators would face justice for their heinous actions. He emphasized the importance of holding them accountable and providing restitution for the victims.
The UN Human Rights Office of the Commissioner released a statement expressing their horror at the gang attacks on Thursday. The European Union also condemned the violence, stating that it was yet another escalation in the extreme violence inflicted upon the Haitian people by these criminal groups.
In response to this horrific incident, the Haitian government has deployed an elite police unit from the capital city, Port-au-Prince, to Pont-Sondé. They have also sent medical supplies to the overwhelmed hospital in the area. Prime Minister Conille stated that the police will remain in the area as long as necessary to ensure the safety of the residents. He also called upon the population to support the police in their efforts to combat gang violence.
The Artibonite region, known for its agriculture and food production, has seen a rise in gang violence in recent years. This attack is one of the largest massacres to occur in the area. Similar incidents have taken place in the capital city of Port-au-Prince, which is currently controlled by gangs. These attacks are often linked to turf wars, with gang members targeting civilians in rival territories. Sadly, many neighborhoods are no longer safe, and those affected by the violence cannot return to their homes, even if they are still standing.
According to the International Organisation for Migration, more than 700,000 people, over half of whom are children, are now internally displaced across Haiti. This number has increased by 22% since June. A quarter of these displaced individuals are currently residing in Port-au-Prince, where they face overcrowding and a lack of access to basic services. Families who have taken in those forced to flee their homes have reported significant challenges, including food shortages and overwhelmed healthcare facilities.
The situation in Haiti is dire, and the violence must be addressed and stopped. Follow us on Whatsapp to stay updated on the latest breaking news, celebrity updates, and sports news. Our channel is free from algorithms and your private details are safe with us. Join us to stay informed and stay safe.
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