Escalating Gang Violence in Haiti: A Deepening Crisis

Haiti is experiencing a significant escalation in gang violence, with armed groups expanding their reach beyond the capital, Port-au-Prince, into regions previously considered stable. Recent reports indicate that at least seven individuals were killed in a gang attack in Seguin, Marigot, on April 13, 2026, where attackers also burned a police station and vehicles. This incident underscores the growing threat posed by gangs, which have increasingly targeted areas such as the Artibonite and Centre departments, leading to widespread fear and displacement among residents.

Haitian Times

The United Nations estimates that over 1.5 million people have been displaced due to gang-related violence, with thousands killed since 2022. In the first quarter of 2026 alone, armed groups have intensified their control over key roads and agricultural areas, disrupting food supply routes and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The UN reports that 5.7 million people in Haiti are facing acute hunger, with many families skipping meals and children leaving school to support their households.

UNFPA Haiti: Displacement from Hurricane Melissa and escalation in gang violence (1 January - 31 March 2026) - Haiti

In response to the escalating violence, Haitian authorities have intensified security operations, supported by international private contractors and a newly formed Gang Suppression Force, which includes personnel from Chad. While these efforts have temporarily slowed gang expansion in Port-au-Prince, the gains remain fragile. A UN expert report highlighted that gangs are adapting to increased pressure, retreating to remote areas where they can operate with relative freedom.

France 24

Despite the deployment of international forces, there are concerns that such actions may lead to increased violence and further displacement. Grégoire Goodstein, chief of mission for the United Nations’ International Organization for Migration in Haiti, expressed apprehension that military operations could push gangs deeper into remote areas, complicating humanitarian access. He noted, “We’re entering a moment of very high unpredictability and reduced funding,” emphasizing the urgent need for sustained support to address the crisis.

Humanitarian organizations, including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), are striving to provide essential services, such as sexual and reproductive health and gender-based violence prevention, despite facing logistical constraints due to gang control over key routes. UNFPA has appealed for $32.8 million to expand these critical services, but as of March 2026, only 5.5% of the required funding had been secured.

UNFPA Haiti: Displacement from Hurricane Melissa and escalation in gang violence (1 January - 31 March 2026) - Haiti

While there is consensus on the severity of the situation, discrepancies exist regarding the exact number of casualties and the effectiveness of security measures. Reports indicate that over 5,500 people were killed in Haiti between March 2025 and January 2026, yet the full impact of recent attacks remains unclear, with local authorities struggling to maintain control.

France 24

As the situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate, the international community is urged to provide increased support to both security and humanitarian efforts. The anticipated operations of the Gang Suppression Force may offer a glimmer of hope, but the potential for increased violence and displacement looms large, necessitating a coordinated response to address the complex challenges facing the nation.