At least 12 people were killed in a gang attack in Kenscoff, a hillside community near Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The victims included a child, and several other people were wounded in the assault.
Details of the attack
The attack took place on Tuesday in Kenscoff, an area known for its cooler climate and upscale residences. The gang targeted residents in their homes, firing weapons and setting houses ablaze, according to local officials.
Among the dead were a 2-year-old child and an elderly woman. The injured were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Background of gang violence
The attack is part of a wave of gang violence that has plagued the capital and surrounding areas. Gangs control large parts of Port-au-Prince, and violence has surged despite a UN-backed security mission led by Kenya.
Kenscoff, located about 20 miles from the capital, had previously been considered relatively safe, but gangs have expanded their reach in recent months.
Impact and response
The attack has heightened fears among residents, many of whom have fled the capital to escape gang violence. Local authorities have called for increased security measures, but the police remain understaffed and outgunned.
The UN and Haitian government have vowed to continue efforts to restore order, but the security situation remains dire. The attack underscores the urgent need for international support to address the escalating crisis.
