Haiti's Escalating Crisis: Violence and Extrajudicial Killings Surge

Violence in Haiti has surged, with over 1,740 casualties reported from July to September, marking a 30% increase. Gangs now control 85% of Port-au-Prince amidst a faltering UN-backed Kenyan-led mission. Extrajudicial killings by police and a prosecutor contribute to the crisis, highlighting deepening instability.

Haiti has witnessed a sharp increase in violence from July to September, with over 1,740 individuals killed or wounded, as reported by the United Nations. This marks a 30% rise compared to the previous three months.

The escalating violence comes as gangs tighten their grip on Port-au-Prince, controlling 85% of the capital. A UN-backed mission led by Kenyan police aimed at curbing gang violence faces challenges due to insufficient funding and personnel, leading to calls for a new UN peacekeeping initiative.

Not only are gangs responsible for the violence, but law enforcement has also been implicated in extrajudicial actions. Of the 1,223 reported killings, at least 106 were carried out extrajudicially by police, including incidents involving children. Jean Ernest Muscadin, the prosecutor for Miragoâne, is also accused of multiple killings since 2022, further exacerbating the national crisis.

(With inputs from agencies.)