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U.N. Reports 47 Killed, 50 Kidnapped in Haiti

8/31/2026

22 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Pope Leo XIV Condemns

Armed gangs killed at least 47 people and kidnapped more than 50 in Kenscoff, Haiti on Aug. 23–24.
The United Nations reported gangs executed 22 victims in the courtyard and 12 behind the church.
Pope Leo XIV condemned the massacre and urged the immediate release of all hostages.
Archbishop Max Leroy Mésidor denounced authorities’ failure to protect civilians and called for more police.

Summary

Izo 2 Threatens

Gang leader Johnson André “Izo 2” posted a video threatening to kill hostages if police intervene.
The U.N. Security Council held an emergency session urging deployment of the new U.N.-backed gang-suppression force.
U.S. Deputy Ambassador Jennifer Locetta pledged equipment, jobs, and infrastructure to curb gang recruitment.
Haitian authorities announced a joint police-military force to reinforce security in Port-au-Prince and Kenscoff.

History

Historical Context

In July–August 1994 the United States deployed forces to Haiti, with the ship USS Peterson supporting Operation Uphold Democracy that aimed to restore Haiti’s elected government. The episode marked a major foreign intervention, and today a UN-backed security mission confronts armed gangs in places such as Kenscoff and surrounding neighborhoods.

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Pope Leo XIV Condemns

Armed gangs killed at least 47 people and kidnapped more than 50 in Kenscoff, Haiti on Aug. 23–24.
The United Nations reported gangs executed 22 victims in the courtyard and 12 behind the church.
Pope Leo XIV condemned the massacre and urged the immediate release of all hostages.
Archbishop Max Leroy Mésidor denounced authorities’ failure to protect civilians and called for more police.

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