Haitian gangs have launched a devastating large-scale attack on the Ouest and Artibonite departments, causing hundreds of civilians to flee their homes and dramatically expanding gang-controlled territory in the Caribbean nation. Police officials confirmed that gangs now control approximately 50 percent of the Artibonite region, including the strategic town of Pont-Sonde.
The coordinated offensive represents a significant escalation in Haiti's ongoing security crisis, which has paralyzed the country for years. Armed groups have been steadily expanding their control beyond the capital Port-au-Prince, threatening the stability of rural areas that had previously remained relatively safe.
Artibonite is one of Haiti's most important agricultural regions, and gang control of the area threatens food security for millions of Haitians already struggling with hunger and poverty. The region's main roads, which connect the capital to the northern part of the country, have become increasingly dangerous for travelers and commerce.
The Haitian National Police, severely understaffed and outgunned by well-armed criminal organizations, has struggled to mount an effective response to the gang expansion. International efforts to deploy a multinational security support mission to Haiti have faced delays and funding challenges.
Thousands of residents have been displaced by the latest violence, joining the estimated 700,000 Haitians already internally displaced by gang warfare. Humanitarian organizations have warned of catastrophic conditions, with many displaced families lacking access to food, clean water, and medical care.
The United Nations and international partners have repeatedly called for urgent action to address Haiti's security crisis, which has worsened significantly since the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021. The transitional government has limited capacity to restore order without substantial international support.
Gang leaders have shown little interest in negotiations, instead continuing to expand their territorial control and engage in kidnapping, extortion, and other criminal activities that terrorize the population. The situation has prompted growing numbers of Haitians to attempt dangerous sea crossings to reach Florida and other destinations.
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