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Part of: Haiti police face scrutiny after Kenscoff gang attack kills 47·4 events

Gang attack near Port-au-Prince kills 47, more than 50 abducted

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Gang attack near Port-au-Prince kills 47, more than 50 abducted

At least 47 people were killed and more than 50 abducted in an armed gang attack on Kenscoff, a town near Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The attack drew condemnation from UN Secretary-General António Guterres and prompted residents to demand the police chief's resignation. The government called it a 'heinous attack' and pledged to restore control over the area.

Key Facts

  • At least 47 people were killed and 22 wounded in the Kenscoff attack.
  • More than 50 people were abducted by the armed gang.
  • Mayor Jean Massillon accused the Viv Ansanm coalition, designated a foreign terrorist organization by the US in 2025, of carrying out the attack.
  • The attack targeted a church and several homes, including that of public health specialist Jean William Pape.
  • A video posted on social media threatened to kill hostages if gang members were harmed during a police operation.

The Attack

Armed men set fire to homes and killed residents in Kenscoff, according to Mayor Jean Massillon. Targets included a church and several residential buildings, among them the home of public health specialist Jean William Pape. The attack occurred near a police station, fueling residents' anger over the failure of law enforcement to protect them. Kenscoff holds strategic importance due to its elevated position overlooking access routes to Port-au-Prince.

Official Response

UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the attack and offered condolences to the families of the victims. The Haitian government called the incident a 'heinous attack' and pledged to strengthen security measures. The prime minister's office stated that authorities would not abandon Kenscoff and would restore control over the territory. Residents demanded the resignation of the police chief, saying officers failed to protect the population.

Threats and Escalation

A video circulating on social media showed a man identifying himself as Izo 2 threatening to kill hostages if gang members were harmed during a police operation. The threat was directed at Vladimir Paraison, director of Haiti's National Police. Since 2025, Kenscoff has been repeatedly attacked by armed groups, forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes.

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Gang attack near Port-au-Prince kills 47, more than 50 abducted

liter.kz

Liter.kz