A U.N. report released Thursday highlighted the increasing gang violence and human rights abuses in Haiti due to a steady stream of illegal weapons being smuggled into the country. Between July and February, more than 4,200 people were killed and 1,356 were injured. Gang violence is mainly perpetrated by a coalition known as “Viv Ansamn,” but self-defense groups and law enforcement also contribute to the violence.
The report revealed a 60% increase in killings by authorities during police operations, with 73% of victims being gang members. However, 27% of those killed were innocent bystanders, struck by stray bullets. The report also mentioned police involvement in summary executions of suspected gang members and their families, as well as the diversion of firearms from the National Police.
Illegal weapons circulating in Haiti, estimated at 270,000 to 500,000, are mostly obtained through private security companies and contribute to the cycle of violence. Despite efforts to combat the issue, severe underfunding, understaffing, corruption, and lack of oversight hinder progress. The U.N.-backed mission to fight gangs in Haiti is significantly understaffed, with only 40% of the envisioned personnel.
The report also highlighted the challenges faced by the Kenyan officers in the mission, with one officer killed in February and another considered dead after being attacked by gangs while trying to rescue Haitian police. Overall, the report underscores the urgent need to address the flow of illegal weapons into Haiti to curb gang violence and human rights abuses.
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