Gang attack in Haiti leaves at least 47 dead as anger mounts over police failures

An overnight gang raid in Kenscoff, a neighborhood overlooking Haiti’s capital of Port-au-Prince, left at least 47 people dead and 22 injured, according to the UN. The attack sparked outrage over the lack of protection from repeated deadly assaults in the area. Kenscoff, strategically positioned, has been targeted by armed gangs multiple times since last year, forcing thousands to flee their homes.

Powerful gangs, under a broad alliance, have long dominated Haiti’s capital and expanded to surrounding regions despite foreign efforts to strengthen local police. The Haitian rights group RNDDH estimated the death toll at 30 to 40 people, with 15 to 20 wounded. The police chief, Vladimir Paraison, later confirmed that several police officers had been injured during the attack.

Residents demanded the resignation of the local police chief, accusing officers of failing to protect the victims, who were just minutes away from the police station. The government vowed to restore security and restore its authority, stating, "Kenscoff will not be abandoned." Ken, speaking to his cousin’s body, expressed frustration, stating, "People in Kenscoff are suffering and the government is to blame."

The attack comes after a series of violent incidents in Kenscoff, including more than 260 deaths and 200 homes destroyed or burned in early 2025, displacing 3,000 residents. Recent attacks have involved rapes, kidnappings, arson, and livestock theft. While some residents claim police tried to resist the armed men, no gang members were identified among the dead.

Local media reported that several houses were set on fire, including that of Jean William Pape, a prominent public health expert. National police chief Paraison assured locals that the police never gave up. The UN-backed Gang Suppression Force aims to reach a capacity of over 5,500 troops this autumn, but it remains uncertain if they will reinforce security in Kenscoff.