Weekly Report March 31 to April 07

Gang Violence Escalates in Haiti: Residents Flee as Attacks Spread Across Multiple Regions

Armed gangs have intensified their grip on several Haitian regions, causing widespread panic and forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes. On March 31, 2025, gangs launched a coordinated attack on Mirebalais, a town in the Central Plateau, leading to a mass exodus of families. Social media videos showed the desperation of those seeking safety as neighborhoods fell under gang control. The Terre Rouge sub-police station, abandoned for over a year, was overtaken and burned by the gangs, who later established a base in Morne-à-Cabris, just 16 miles from Mirebalais. Residents had been warned of the impending attack via social media ten days prior.

In addition to the attacks in Mirebalais, violence has spread across multiple areas of Haiti, including Kenscoff, Delmas, Artibonite, Léogâne, and Pétion-Ville, with gangs consistently advancing despite police resistance. In the highlands of Pétion-Ville, including Grenier and Granmòt, armed groups carried out kidnappings and set fire to homes. The situation has become increasingly dire, as local authorities struggle to contain the violence. With at least 150 civilian deaths reported, including newborns, and multiple casualties among law enforcement officers and members of the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission, the security crisis in Haiti continues to escalate.

The attacks have become a near-daily occurrence, as gangs, particularly those from the Viv Ansanm Coalition, expand their control over more territories. In February 2025, gangs from Carrefour, Grand Ravin, and Village de Dieu stormed the town of Kenscoff, while in March, violent clashes were reported in Delmas 30 and Delmas 19, where gang forces targeted the Christ-Roi district. The security forces, already stretched thin, have found it increasingly difficult to respond effectively to the constant waves of gang violence.

At least three Haitian law enforcement officers were killed, and three others were wounded, along with casualties among the ranks of the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS). The latter's presence has not deterred the gangs, who continue to operate with relative impunity. Even more concerning is the growing number of kidnapping victims, many of whom are targeted for ransom. The gangs’ increasing control over key infrastructure and territories has paralyzed daily life, with many businesses, schools, and hospitals being forced to close due to the ongoing threat of violence.

The situation is compounded by the failure of local authorities to regain control over territories lost to the gangs. In addition to the violence, smuggling and the illicit arms trade have fueled the gangs’ rise in power. Local officials have raised alarms about the government's inability to provide effective support to the police, as evidenced by the closing of government offices and the relocation of key ministries due to security concerns. Amid these challenges, residents continue to plead for stronger action from the government and international community to restore order and provide security to the embattled population.

With Haiti facing a dual crisis of gang violence and widespread poverty, citizens have become increasingly disillusioned with promises of reform. The worsening conditions have led to growing calls for a more robust and coordinated response from both national and international authorities. As gang violence spreads and communities remain under siege, the urgency of the situation is more apparent than ever. The survival of the country’s social and economic infrastructure depends on decisive action from the government to neutralize the gangs and restore order.

Gang Assault in Mirebalais Escalated; City Was Under Siege

Haiti's National Police (PNH) had deployed reinforcements to the Central Plateau town of Mirebalais on March 31, 2025, after ared gangs from Canaan launched a violent assault on the city. The attack targeted the local prison, resulting in the escape of over 500 inmates. Gangs also raided businesses and clashed with police, killing at least 30 gang members and injuring three officers. Despite the police response, armed groups continued to control parts of the city, terrorizing residents and forcing thousands to flee toward nearby towns.

The attack in Mirebalais, a town of nearly 200,000 people, had mirrored a similar incident in 2024 when gang forces freed thousands of prisoners in Port-au-Prince and Croix-des-Bouquets. In addition to attacking the prison, the gangs raided the local hospital, putting both staff and patients at risk. The violence caused widespread fear, with residents fleeing to neighboring towns such as Lascahobas, Belladère, and Hinche, some even reaching Cap-Haïtien.

Local authorities had anticipated an assault, with reports indicating the gangs' intent to attack. On March 10, police arrested several individuals suspected of collaborating with the gangs, and the authorities had recently intercepted a large weapons shipment in Belladère. The gang's attack was seen as retaliation for these law enforcement actions. Frédérique Occéan, the Departmental Delegate of the Centre, stated that the attack had begun with a prison break and spread across the city.

By April 1, 2025, the situation remained volatile. The gangs had continued to engage in shootouts with police, further destabilizing the area. The city's Lycée de Mirebalais had been seized by the gangs, who had established a base of operations there. Despite the ongoing clashes, the Haitian government had yet to respond adequately to local authorities’ requests for assistance, deepening the sense of abandonment among residents.

The violence in Mirebalais was part of a broader pattern of escalating gang activity in Haiti. Since the start of 2025, gangs had launched several attacks in various regions, including Kenscoff, Delmas, and Léogâne. These incidents resulted in numerous casualties among both civilians and law enforcement officers, including members of the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), indicating the expanding influence of criminal groups throughout the country.

Haitian Government's Commitment to Combat Insecurity

The Haitian government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling the growing insecurity in the country, announcing a significant financial investment to combat criminal activities. On March 31, 2025, during the reopening of the Tribunal de Première Instance in Port-au-Prince, Minister of Justice and Public Security, Patrick Pélissier, stated that the government aims to "eradicate" insecurity through substantial investments. As part of the revised 2024-2025 budget, 31 billion gourdes have been allocated to strengthen the National Police of Haiti (PNH), with over 7 billion gourdes dedicated to acquiring strategic equipment. Additionally, 4.4 billion gourdes will be used for the modernization and operational deployment of the Haitian Armed Forces (FAd'H). This plan is awaiting approval from the Council of Ministers.

In March 2025, the government also invested 12 million dollars in purchasing advanced weapons and equipment to enhance law enforcement capabilities. This financial plan reflects the government's determination to restore public order by reinforcing the PNH and FAd'H, ensuring the safety of citizens, and refusing to yield any ground to armed gangs. The government has made it clear that it will not back down in the face of the growing gang violence threatening the country.

Armed Gangs Attack High-Elevation Areas of Pétion-Ville, Kidnappings Reported

On April 1, 2025, several areas in the highlands of Pétion-Ville, including Grenier and Granmòt (Thomassin), were attacked by armed gangs. According to reports from Vision 2000, multiple kidnappings were carried out by the assailants, who also set fire to homes, causing widespread panic among the residents. The situation has become increasingly dire, as the violence continues to spread in the region.

In an interview with Le Filet Info last week, the interim executive agent of Kenskoff, Jean Masillon, urged the population of Thomassin and surrounding areas to remain vigilant. Masillon noted that members of the Viv Ansanm Coalition, based in his commune, are attempting to expand their control over additional zones in the heights of Pétion-Ville. The rise in attacks has led to heightened fears in the region, as local authorities struggle to contain the violence

Armed Gangs Attack High-Elevation Areas of Pétion-Ville, Kidnappings Reported

On the night of April 1-2, 2025, the M/V CENTURY ROYAL, a Panama-flagged bulk carrier, was attacked by pirates while anchored near Mariani in Port-au-Prince Bay. Six unidentified individuals boarded the vessel in the early morning hours, injuring several crew members. The Haitian Port Authority (APN) responded swiftly, deploying a team with their Rambo boat and Haitian Coast Guard agents. Despite the intervention, two crew members remain unaccounted for, and their fate is unknown. The ship, carrying a rice cargo, is currently being unloaded at the port, but there are concerns that the attack may slow port activities. Authorities are investigating the incident, which is suspected to be a case of piracy, though it remains unclear whether the attack is connected to the Ministry of Finance's recent ban on goods transit through Dominican border posts.

Shipping Companies Threaten to Halt Operations at Port-au-Prince Due to Security Concerns

Several shipping companies have recently refrained from sending vessels to the Port of Port-au-Prince, citing growing security concerns in the bay, including the kidnapping of two crew members and gunfire directed at the Haitian Port Authority (APN) installations from nearby buildings. In response, the Conille government has acted swiftly, announcing that three 110-foot ships will be deployed to secure operations in the bay. The TPTC, the Haitian National Police (PNH), and the Haitian Armed Forces (FAD'H) have destroyed buildings used by criminals to target APN facilities. Amid concerns over increased smuggling across the Dominican border, some are questioning who benefits from destabilizing port operations. As of September 18, 2024, four ships that had anchored in the bay departed, and the last ship to dock at the port was on September 9. Several maritime lines have reported a lack of bookings for container transport, and shipping for bulk goods has become increasingly difficult. There are fears of shortages and lost revenue for customs if this situation continues for another ten days.

Shipping companies are applying pressure, but authorities are working to reassure them with enhanced security measures. According to sources, the APN is assuming responsibility for security in the bay, as the coast guard lacks sufficient resources. Three 110-foot vessels will escort ships to the port, with one positioned in the Bay of La Gonâve to escort vessels halfway, and another to guide them into port. Authorities are committed to ensuring adequate security and reassuring shipping companies. The kidnapping of two crew members and the recent gunfire at APN facilities have highlighted the need for stronger security, and the government has pledged to investigate the motivations behind these incidents. The Conille administration, through Minister of Economy and Finance Ketleen Florestal, has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling smuggling and strengthening border security, with all options being considered, including potential partnerships for border surveillance. Florestal also mentioned ongoing cooperation with the Dominican Republic regarding the sharing of customs data.

Tensions Rise in Port-au-Prince Amid Protests and Blockades

The metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince woke up to heightened tension on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. Key roads, including those in Delmas, Juvénat, Canapé-Vert, and Bois Verna, were blocked by barricades. Burning tire columns were scattered throughout some streets, particularly in Delmas 95 and the Frères road area, while gunshots were heard in various locations. The streets, typically busy with schoolchildren, were unusually quiet as few students were seen on their way to school.

This unrest coincided with a planned demonstration in the capital, where residents from neighborhoods such as Canapé-Vert, Pacot, Turgeau, Carrefour-Feuilles, and Solino took to the streets to protest the increasing violence by criminal groups and demand that the authorities restore security. One of the protest's key organizers, Etzer Jean, appeared on the morning show of Radio Magik 9 and criticized the government's indifference to the suffering of the population. He expressed frustration that citizens lacked full information on the situation, pointing out that the answers lie with the current administration and the members of the Council of the Transition Government (CPT).

Etzer Jean also suggested that, for strategic reasons, the exact route of the protest would not be made public. However, he did mention that the protesters aimed to send a message to Musseau, where the offices of the Transition Government's members and Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé are located. Jean accused some members of the CPT of failing to address the needs of the population and of showing a lack of empathy since taking office, which has sparked further disillusionment among the people.

Mirebalais Hospital Faces Threats Amid Escalating Violence

The escalating violence in Mirebalais is directly jeopardizing the operations of the Mirebalais University Hospital (HUM), threatening the safety of staff, patients, and the stability of an already fragile healthcare system. Dr. Ralph Ternier, one of the hospital's leaders, expressed concerns that after three days of clashes, police forces may be exhausted, and security may be unable to maintain control, putting the hospital at risk. In a statement on Magik 9, Dr. Ternier highlighted the growing fatigue among both hospital staff and law enforcement, and the need to evacuate critically ill patients from intensive care. The non-governmental organization, Zanmi Lasante, which manages the HUM, also issued a warning on social media, stating that the attacks on Mirebalais could lead to the collapse of Haiti’s healthcare system, depriving hundreds of thousands of vital care. The hospital, which provides essential services including emergency care, maternal services, and surgeries, serves as a lifeline for Haitians. With nearly 300 beds and an international accreditation, HUM treats over 400,000 patients annually. The hospital's closure would have catastrophic consequences for the country’s healthcare infrastructure. Zanmi Lasante and hospital officials are urgently calling on the international community and humanitarian organizations for immediate action to secure the hospital and ensure continuity of medical services.

ADIH Calls for Urgent Action to Address Growing Insecurity in Haiti

The Association of Industries of Haiti (ADIH) has strongly condemned the escalating insecurity in the capital and the Artibonite department. Armed gangs are increasingly gaining control, openly challenging authorities, and extending their territories, which has left the population in a state of dire distress. Areas such as Christ-Roi, Avenue N, Carrefour-Feuilles, Delmas 19, and Pacot are gradually falling under gang control, while the state seems unable to restore order. The recent relocation of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) due to insecurity highlights the severity of the situation and raises concerns about the message it sends to both national and international investors.

The ADIH has reminded the Transitional Council and the Government of Haiti of their clear mandate to restore security and the rule of law. The public is demanding concrete results in three key areas: security, infrastructure

investments in neglected neighborhoods, constitutional reform, and the organization of elections. The ADIH has emphasized that it will not support superficial events or initiatives while the country is in crisis, with schools closing, hospitals struggling, and churches under pressure. They stress that it is urgent for the government to focus solely on the priority of security, taking decisive and courageous measures to neutralize the gangs.

The ADIH urges the authorities to take immediate and uncompromising action to restore order and fulfill their duty to protect the nation. The citizens no longer expect promises but require concrete actions to address the growing violence. The ADIH asserts that the survival of the nation depends on the government’s response.

Cholera Outbreak in Arcahaie: 23 Deaths and 80 Hospitalizations in Four Weeks

According to Le Relief, the Fond Baptiste area, located in the commune of Arcahaie, has been severely affected by a cholera outbreak over the past four weeks, with 23 deaths and 80 hospitalizations reported. Chrisnette Saint Georges, a native of the region, has issued an urgent call to the government and the Ministry of Public Health for immediate assistance to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe. Cholera is an acute bacterial infection caused by ingesting Vibrio cholerae, leading to severe diarrhea that can result in rapid dehydration and death if not treated promptly. The disease is primarily transmitted through contaminated water or food. In response to the severity of the situation in Fond Baptiste, there have been calls for enhanced public health measures, improved access to clean drinking water, and increased public awareness about essential hygiene practices to curb the spread of the disease.

Brutal Attacks in Kenscoff Leave Over 260 Dead, UN Reports

A new report by the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) reveals that brutal attacks in Kenscoff, a commune located on the heights of Port-au-Prince, have resulted in at least 262 deaths and 66 injuries over the past two months. The report details the violent actions of criminal groups, which targeted the local population and individuals associated with these gangs, with 53% of the victims being civilians and 47% gang members. These attacks aimed to instill fear, with men, women, and children executed in their homes or while fleeing, while the bodies of victims were burned. Additional atrocities included sexual violence against women and girls. Approximately 200 homes were destroyed, and over 3,000 people were displaced. The criminal groups sought to extend their control over the mountainous areas of Kenscoff to destabilize the Pétion-Ville commune and weaken local authorities.

Although Haitian security forces were slow to respond on the first day of the attacks, a gradual deployment, supported by the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM), helped to slow the advance of the criminal groups. However, law and order have not been restored. The latest attacks were recorded between March 24 and 27, demonstrating the ongoing presence of criminal groups in the area. Since the beginning of the violence, four security officers have been killed, and several others, including a member of the MSSM, were injured. Despite the efforts of state services, UN agencies, and national and international NGOs to provide humanitarian aid and protection, the scale of the needs remains overwhelming, particularly for the survivors, many of whom are traumatized, including children who witnessed or suffered extreme violence.

SPNH-17 and RNDDH React to BSAP Integration with PNH in Insecurity Fight

The Syndicate of the National Police of Haiti (SPNH-17) has praised the decision by the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) to allow the Brigade for the Surveillance of Protected Areas (BSAP) to collaborate with the Haitian National Police (PNH) in combating insecurity. The SPNH-17 urged the authorities to take further steps to support this decision, such as reassigning military personnel from VIP security details to assist with security operations in the field. This collaboration is seen as a positive move in strengthening efforts to tackle the escalating violence and crime in the country.

On the other hand, Pierre Espérance, executive director of the National Network for the Defense of Human Rights (RNDDH), has strongly criticized the CPT's decision, labeling the BSAP as an "illegal structure" without a legal foundation. Espérance pointed out that the BSAP lacks formal regulations, such as recruitment processes, clear duties, and operational limits, and that its members are neither paid nor armed by the state. He raised concerns about the group’s controversial history, its involvement in criminal activities, and its potential ties to individuals connected to political unrest and coups. Espérance warned that integrating the BSAP into security operations would likely exacerbate Haiti's insecurity and suggested that the CPT should instead focus on collaborating with private security companies and recruiting new personnel to strengthen the national police force.

Government Helicopter Hit by Gunfire While Flying Over Saut-d'Eau

While flying over the Saut-d’Eau commune, a Haitian government helicopter, operated by Civil Protection, was struck by a projectile. The helicopter was en route from Port-au-Prince to Cap-Haïtien and was flying at low altitude due to weather conditions. Upon reaching Saut-d’Eau, the aircraft was hit by a 9mm round, according to a source close to the situation. The helicopter turned back toward Port-au-Prince after the incident, and while one passenger was grazed by the bullet, they remained calm and did not panic the others onboard. It was only upon landing that the passenger revealed what had happened. Sources speculate that the helicopter was targeted after officials disclosed that reinforcements had been airlifted to Mirebalais to combat the gangs.

Saut-d’Eau Falls to Gangs, Deepening Haiti's Security Crisis

After months of resistance, the commune of Saut-d’Eau has fallen to the Viv Ansanm gang coalition. The town's center, the last stronghold of residents and law enforcement, was overtaken on April 3rd. The gangs invaded the area, burning homes and businesses that had supported the resistance, while looting and destroying property. Local sources suggest the fall of Saut-d’Eau was due to the redirection of police forces to Mirebalais, leaving the town vulnerable. With only limited resources, the gangs intensified their attacks, leading to the town's collapse.

Saut-d’Eau's downfall follows months of violent assaults starting in September 2023, which resulted in deaths, injuries, and mass displacement. The latest attack in early 2025 was particularly brutal, with widespread destruction and casualties. Local authorities had warned the state before each assault, but little action was taken, allowing the gangs to tighten their grip. The fall of Saut-d’Eau, strategically located between key regions, will likely worsen the already unstable security situation in the area.

Explosive Drone Strike Kills Multiple Gang Members in Tabarre

Several members of the Viv Ansanm criminal coalition were killed in a targeted explosive drone attack on the evening of April 3, 2025, in Tabarre. The attack occurred while the gang members were gathered near Cassandra Market. This strike comes amid heightened tensions in the area, where violent clashes have been ongoing for over two days between the Haitian National Police and Viv Ansanm assailants, following a fresh offensive by the gang against several neighborhoods in the commune.

Haitian Government Delivers New Military Equipment to Strengthen Armed Forces

The Haitian government, according to Defense Minister Jean Michel Moïse, has provided the Haitian Armed Forces (FAd’H) with 25 vehicles and 2 troop transport trucks. This marks a significant step in enhancing the logistical capabilities of the military. Additionally, an order for armored vehicles is reportedly in progress, with delivery expected in the coming months. These new resources are aimed at improving the mobility and security of military operations. To support the maintenance of these assets, a military garage has been set up at the Vertières base in Tabarre, reflecting the government’s commitment to modernizing the country’s military infrastructure.

Dominican President Unveils 15 Measures to Address Haitian Irregular Migration

On April 6, 2025, Dominican President Luis Abinader announced a series of 15 measures aimed at addressing irregular Haitian migration and safeguarding his country’s security and legal framework. Among the key actions, he revealed the deployment of 1,500 additional soldiers to the border, complementing the 9,500 already stationed there, as well as the construction of 13 more kilometers of border fence, supplementing the 54 kilometers already in place. Abinader highlighted the strain that Haitian migration has placed on Dominican hospitals, schools, and security, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger immigration laws. He outlined a plan to accelerate border infrastructure, propose legal reforms to tighten sanctions on government officials and individuals involved in facilitating illegal immigration, and expand immigration control offices. Additionally, 750 new immigration agents will be recruited to bolster the country’s immigration enforcement capacity

Other measures include setting up a dedicated office within the Attorney General's office to address crimes related to illegal immigration, establishing a citizen observatory to monitor the implementation of migration policies, and implementing strict protocols in public hospitals to control the influx of undocumented individuals. President Abinader also announced plans to regulate the employment of undocumented workers in key sectors such as agriculture and construction, aiming to reduce reliance on illegal labor. Furthermore, discussions on wage increases for workers in free trade zones and tourism will focus on enhancing the "Dominicanization" of the workforce. Finally, the government will extend funding for technological transformation in agricultural and construction cooperatives to reduce dependence on informal labor.

Armed Gang Attacked BIM Base in Clercine, Leaving Multiple Victims

Heavily armed gang members launched a violent attack on the Motorized Intervention Battalion (BIM) base in Clercine, terrorizing the area. After assaulting several homes, the attackers set houses on fire, held residents hostage, and killed multiple people. Local residents reported that the assailants were attempting to take control of the neighborhood, escalating violence with each attack. While the exact number of casualties remained unclear, several witnesses reported deaths and disappearances. In response, police from the Motorized Intervention Brigade (CBIM) fought back and called for reinforcements to push back the criminals. However, the situation remained tense, with residents living in fear and chaos spreading throughout the area.