Displaced Haitians protest with stones, demanding safe return home

Port-au-Prince, (EFE).- Displaced protesters in Haiti took to the streets, setting up burning barricades and throwing stones near the capital, demanding government action against armed gangs that have forced them from their homes. Demonstrations erupted in areas like Solino and Canapé-Vert, causing major traffic disruptions and prompting school closures.

With gangs controlling nearly 85% of Port-au-Prince, sporadic gunfire was reported in Fort National and Carrefour-Feuilles, where attacks continue to displace families. Members of the Haitian National Police Union (SPNH-17) also protested outside the Prime Minister’s office, calling for better resources to fight criminal groups, including armored vehicles, weapons, and drones.

The unrest follows the death of a Kenyan officer during a joint operation by the Multinational Security Support Force (MSS) and Haitian National Police in Artibonite. Despite the MSS presence, gang violence continues to spread. The Haitian Ministry of Defense expressed deep sorrow over the officer’s death, recognizing his sacrifice.