Haiti Protests Police Inaction Against Rampant Gang Violence

A woman is affected by tear gas fired by police to disperse a protest demanding that police and the Prime Minister take immediate action against gangs in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Monday, Aug. 19, 2024.

Police in Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince, used tear gas to disperse hundreds of peaceful protesters demanding assistance in combating the violent gangs that have been taking control of their neighborhoods. The protesters expressed frustration over the lack of effective measures to address the rampant gang violence in the city.

Residents, including 24-year-old Marclin Jean-Pierre, took to the streets to voice their concerns about the escalating violence and the government's perceived inaction. Jean-Pierre highlighted the constant threat of gun violence in his neighborhood of Solino, which has become a battleground for gangs vying for control.

Reports indicate that the attacks in Solino were carried out by a coalition of gangs led by convicted kidnapper Kempes Sanon and notorious gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, also known as “Barbecue”. Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, gang activity has surged, with gangs now controlling approximately 80% of Port-au-Prince.

Gangs control 80% of Port-au-Prince post-President's assassination.

Haiti's capital saw peaceful protests against gang violence.

Residents, like Marclin Jean-Pierre, express frustration over government inaction.

Coalition of gangs, led by 'Barbecue', terrorize neighborhoods like Solino.

Prime Minister promises security measures, deploys Kenyan police officers.

Violent incidents, like prison break, worsen the crisis in Haiti.

In response to the escalating violence, Prime Minister Garry Conille promised to prioritize security, and around 400 Kenyan police officers were deployed as part of a UN-backed mission. However, residents in Haiti continue to face ongoing violence and insecurity.

Recent incidents, such as a violent prison break resulting in multiple casualties and widespread displacement of families, have further exacerbated the crisis. Despite the efforts of the international community and promises of increased security measures, many Haitians feel abandoned and unprotected.

The residents of Solino staged a protest in the hopes of drawing attention to their plight and urging authorities to take decisive action against the gangs. However, the demonstration was met with resistance from law enforcement, who used tear gas to disperse the crowd, leaving many feeling betrayed and vulnerable.

Marclin Jean-Pierre expressed disappointment in the lack of intervention from the international community, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger measures to address the escalating violence in Haiti.

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