The United States has strongly condemned the ongoing gang violence in Haiti, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressing grave concern following the tragic death of a Kenyan officer involved in peacekeeping efforts.
On X, Rubio voiced his support for the international personnel working to stabilize the nation, highlighting the increasing challenges posed by the gangs controlling large parts of the capital, Port-au-Prince.
“Spoke with Transitional Presidential Council President Jean about the security situation in Port-au-Prince. Grateful for the bravery of the Haitian National Police and international personnel for working to stabilize Haiti,” Rubio said.
His remarks come at a critical time as violence continues to escalate, leaving the Haitian government struggling to maintain control over its capital city.
Port-au-Prince has been plagued by escalating gang violence, with heavily armed groups, notably Viv Ansanm (Live Together), asserting control over significant portions of the city.
This surge in violence has led to widespread displacement, with approximately 60,000 people forced to flee their homes in the past month alone.
The gangs’ influence has left the Haitian government controlling only about 30% of the capital, leading to rampant gunfire and looting.
In response to the growing crisis, the United Nations has reported a 30% increase in violence from July to September 2024, resulting in nearly 1,750 people killed or injured. Gangs now dominate approximately 85% of Port-au-Prince, enforcing their own rules in areas lacking state presence.
The UN has called for expedited deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), a Kenyan-led international police force, to assist Haitian authorities.
However, the mission faces challenges, including inadequate funding and personnel shortages.
The recent death of Kenyan officer Samuel Tompei Kaetuai during an anti-gang operation underscores the risks involved.
The 31-year-old officer succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained in Savien, near Pont-Sondé in the lower Artibonite Department, an area previously afflicted by significant gang-related violence.
Further compounding the situation, another Kenyan police officer has gone missing following a gang ambush.
The officer was part of a team attempting to rescue Haitian colleagues trapped by gangs when they were attacked.
Photos and circulating videos suggest the officer was killed, highlighting the extreme dangers faced by international personnel in Haiti’s volatile environment.
This event has galvanized the U.S. government’s call for stronger international intervention and greater support for the Haitian National Police.
The ongoing violence has precipitated a severe humanitarian crisis, with over a million people displaced and living in unsanitary conditions.
Children are particularly vulnerable, with reports indicating that 30-50% of gang members are minors.
Many are coerced into gang activities, facing threats of violence, sexual abuse, and exploitation.
Amnesty International has called for enhanced support services, including education and mental health care, to address the needs of these vulnerable youths.
