A surge of violence in Haiti has resulted in at least 20 fatalities due to an attack by the notorious Gran Grif gang, highlighting the increasing difficulties facing the Kenya-led peacekeeping mission in the Caribbean nation.
The attack on Pont-Sondé, a town in the Artibonite region, raises doubts about whether the Kenyan police, who lead the international peace force, can effectively control the growing gang violence.
This latest outbreak of violence comes soon after the United Nations Security Council extended the Kenya-led mission for another year, despite calls from Haiti to transform it into a UN peacekeeping operation.
Since its launch in June, the mission has faced challenges in stabilizing areas controlled by powerful gangs like Gran Grif.
Video footage of the attack shows civilians fleeing in terror on motorbikes and foot.
Reports indicate over 50 people were injured, while estimates of the dead range between 20 and over 50, with authorities calling the incident “a massacre.”
The Gran Grif gang, known for its brutality, has been involved in violent activities for a long time.
With about 100 members, the gang is responsible for numerous serious crimes, including murder, rape, and kidnapping, and has even attacked police stations and health facilities.
The recent massacre underscores their continued influence and Haiti’s fragile security.
Kenya’s police, leading a UN-backed mission, are finding the task of restoring peace in Haiti more difficult than expected.
Armed gangs control much of the country, posing a significant challenge for the 1,000 Kenyan officers who are part of the 2,500-strong multinational force.
Despite Prime Minister Garry Conille’s commitment to tackle gang violence, it’s becoming increasingly clear that more than just a “robust use of force,” as described by the UN, will be necessary.
The Haitian government’s threats of justice, following the dispatch of an anti-gang tactical unit to Pont-Sondé, seem unconvincing given the continued violence.
For Kenya, the mission in Haiti is proving to be a tough struggle.
The UN’s decision to extend the mandate offers limited hope for lasting stability.
Gangs like Gran Grif have shown resilience, defying the presence of international forces.
The pressing question is whether Kenya’s involvement will bring real change or become another unsuccessful effort to combat gang violence.
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