At least 47 people were killed in an overnight attack on the Kenscoff neighborhood near Port-au-Prince, prompting residents to demand better security and accountability from local authorities.
A significant gang incursion struck the hillside community of Kenscoff on Monday night, resulting in substantial casualties and renewed calls for government action. The United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti reported at least 47 deaths and 22 injuries, though the Haitian rights group RNDDH provided a lower estimate of 30 to 40 killed and 15 to 20 wounded, noting that precise figures remain difficult to confirm. The raid began around 10:30 p.m. local time and included reports of arson, with several homes set ablaze including the residence of prominent public health expert Jean William Pape.
Kenscoff, strategically positioned overlooking key routes into the capital and the nearby diplomatic enclave of Petion-Ville, has become a focal point of gang violence. The U.N. documented over 260 deaths across a two-month period in early 2025 alone, alongside the destruction or burning of approximately 200 homes and the displacement of around 3,000 residents. Local authorities reported that police officers engaged the attackers during the incident, with national police chief Vladimir Paraison stating that officers "never gave up," though some sustained injuries. Despite these efforts, residents expressed frustration over the perceived inadequacy of protection, particularly given the police station's proximity to the attack site, with some demanding the local police chief's resignation.
Haiti's government pledged to restore order and reinforced security measures, though residents and observers remain skeptical about implementation. The violence raises concerns about the feasibility of holding elections scheduled for December, the first in a decade, as gang alliances continue expanding their control over the capital and surrounding regions despite international support for law enforcement efforts.
