United Nations, United States (AFP) — The UN reports that over 1,200 people were killed between July and September in Haiti, marking a 27% increase from the previous quarter as the country continues to grapple with escalating gang violence and law enforcement operations. According to the quarterly report released Wednesday, 1,223 people lost their lives, and 522 were injured as a result of the unrest, which underscores Haiti’s severe security crisis.
The report indicates that nearly half of the deaths, 47%, were linked to gang activity, while 45% resulted from law enforcement actions. Disturbingly, at least 106 extrajudicial or arbitrary executions were attributed to law enforcement, with six of the victims reportedly being children around ten years old.
Additionally, the report highlighted a rise in violence from self-defense groups, collectively known as the “Bwa Kale” movement, which saw a 40% increase in activity. These groups accounted for approximately 8% of the killings during the period. According to the UN, at least 122 individuals, suspected gang members, or individuals accused of minor crimes were killed with extreme brutality by self-defense groups. Victims were mutilated, stoned, or even buried alive. One particularly harrowing incident involved a 15-year-old boy accused of theft, who was attacked with a machete and then buried alive in Petit Goave.
Kidnappings, however, showed a significant decline, with 170 cases recorded — a 64% decrease compared to the first quarter and a 60% decrease from the second quarter.
The UN report also emphasized the ongoing, pervasive use of sexual violence against women and girls, painting a grim picture of the humanitarian and security challenges facing Haiti.
