United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the latest deadly gang attack in Haiti, warning that the escalating violence highlights the country’s worsening security crisis and the urgent need to protect civilians.
The latest attack occurred in Kenscoff, a commune on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince, where armed gangs reportedly killed at least 47 people and kidnapped more than 50 others. The victims included civilians caught in the assault as gangs targeted communities that had previously been considered relatively safer.
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Guterres expressed his condolences to the families of those killed and called for the perpetrators to be held accountable. He also stressed the need for continued international support for Haiti as authorities struggle to contain armed groups that have expanded their influence beyond traditional gang strongholds.
The Kenscoff attack has further demonstrated how quickly Haiti’s security situation can deteriorate, with armed groups increasingly targeting communities outside central Port-au-Prince. The United Nations has warned that the violence is contributing to mass displacement and worsening humanitarian conditions.
The latest bloodshed comes as Haiti prepares for a long-awaited electoral process, with security remaining one of the major obstacles to restoring political stability. More than 1.4 million Haitians have been displaced by gang violence, while millions more face severe food insecurity.
The UN chief has repeatedly called for stronger international support for Haiti’s security institutions. A UN-backed Gang Suppression Force is expected to play a major role in confronting armed groups, although its full deployment has yet to take place.
The continuing attacks have also raised concerns about the ability of Haitian authorities to protect civilians and create conditions necessary for elections. Gangs have continued to challenge state authority in several parts of the country, while kidnappings and attacks remain a serious threat.
Guterres’ latest condemnation comes as the international community faces growing pressure to help Haiti restore security while addressing the humanitarian consequences of the violence. The UN has stressed that any security response must respect international human rights law and protect the civilian population.
The latest attack has once again underscored the scale of the challenge facing Haiti, where efforts to restore political order and hold elections remain closely tied to the government’s ability to reclaim territory and provide basic security for its citizens.
