Violence flares in Haiti as gang attack kills 30 people
A gang attack in the Kenscoff community of Haiti has resulted in at least 30 deaths, marking a surge in violence as the nation prepares for its first general election in over a decade. The attack was attributed to the Viv Ansanm gang coalition, which controls much of the capital.
Why it matters
The persistent gang violence threatens the stability of Haiti's democratic transition and highlights the limitations of international security efforts in the region.
Island nation grapples with violence as it seeks to hold first elections in more than a decade.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Gangs control 70 percent of Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince [File: Odelyn Joseph/AP] By Al Jazeera Staff , AP and Reuters Published On 24 Aug 2026 24 Aug 2026 At least 30 people have been killed as a new wave of violence grips Haiti.
A powerful gang coalition mounted the deadly attack on a farming community in Kenscoff, south of the capital, Port-au-Prince, late on Sunday, officials reported. The flare-up in violence comes as Haiti hopes to hold its first general election in more than a decade.
Jean Massillon, Kenscoff’s mayor, said armed men “sowed chaos” as they set homes on fire and killed residents.
He said gang members targeted a church and homes, including that of Jean William Pape, a leading public health expert.
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