Haiti has been gripped by a tragic incident where at least 47 lives were lost and 22 individuals were injured following an attack by gang members on a church that was providing refuge for displaced persons near Port-au-Prince. This grim event has drawn international attention, with the United Nations expressing concern over the rising death toll.
In a report to France 24, the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) highlighted the potential for the death toll to climb as more information is uncovered regarding the attack in Kenscoff.
The assault, attributed to the Viv Ansanm gang coalition, commenced late Sunday night, as detailed by Kenscoff Mayor Massillon Jean. Speaking to Radio Magic 9, Jean described the night as a period of terror for the community, as reported by The Haitian Times.
Survivors have recounted tales of homes set ablaze and abductions taking place. According to Agenzia Fides, a worship center belonging to the evangelical Church of the Ark of the New Covenant was among the structures destroyed. The attack also resulted in the deaths of animals, including horses, in the area.
In response, the Haitian government issued a statement asserting that security forces have been placed on high alert and reinforcements dispatched to restore order. The statement emphasized the government’s commitment to eliminating armed groups and restoring authority across Kenscoff.
BINUH reported that throughout Haiti, from April to June 2026, at least 1,408 people were killed, with 656 injured, primarily due to gang violence, which accounted for 55% of these casualties.
Carlos Ruiz Massieu, the U.N. special representative in Haiti and head of BINUH, stressed the importance of protecting vulnerable populations, stating, “These figures show that the population continues to bear an unacceptable toll from violence. Their protection must remain at the heart of all efforts to restore security, particularly for children, women, and other people exposed to heightened risks.”
Violence, driven by territorial and revenue disputes between gangs, has surged in areas such as Plaine du Cul-de-Sac and Cité Soleil, reaching levels unseen since early 2024. This unrest has resulted in over 18,000 people being displaced, with many losing access to essential services like healthcare and education.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
