In a harrowing quarter spanning October to December 2024, gang violence and law enforcement actions in Haiti have resulted in a staggering 1,732 fatalities and 411 injuries. This grim tally elevates the annual figures to 5,626 dead and 2,213 wounded, showcasing an escalating tide of violence that grips the nation. Kidnapping remains a relentless threat, with 431 individuals seized, culminating in 1,494 abductions for the year, underscoring the pervasive lawlessness.
The brutality extends beyond gangs; the alarming practices of summary or arbitrary executions by law enforcement have claimed 86 lives during this period, including two children. The Haitian National Police accounted for 80 executions, while the Public Prosecutor’s office in Miragoâne was linked to six. Since January, at least 283 people have lost their lives due to such actions, signaling a troubling trend in policing and justice.
Self-defense groups are now a significant contributor to human rights violations, causing 268 deaths, which represents 13% of the quarter’s total casualties. These numbers reflect a dark corner of societal unrest, where violence breeds further violence, leading to the deaths of 21 detainees in custody—a total of 186 for the year.
Concerns abound regarding the trafficking and exploitation of children, often targeted by gangs, as voices from local organizations highlight this pressing issue. Meanwhile, some movement has been seen within the judicial system with new appointments, including the Minister of Justice and Public Security, which may offer a glimmer of hope for reform amidst the chaos.
During the final quarter of 2024, Haiti grappled with severe violence, recording 1,732 deaths and 411 injuries amid gang conflicts and police operations. Kidnappings surged, totaling 1,494 for the year, and extra-judicial killings by law enforcement continued unabated. Self-defense groups contributed significantly to human rights abuses, while concerns about child trafficking emerged. Key judicial appointments took place, suggesting potential paths for reform.
The quarterly report paints a bleak picture of human rights in Haiti, illustrating a surge in violence, abductions, and unlawful executions. Despite recent judicial appointments, the challenges of gang warfare, police brutality, and child exploitation loom large, signaling a pressing need for comprehensive reform and humanitarian intervention to safeguard the rights and lives of the Haitian populace.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
