A gang attack in Haiti resulted in the deaths of at least 70 people in Pont-Sonde on Thursday, amid an alarming rise in gang violence in rural areas raising concerns about a lack of law and order in a country that is already grappling with profound humanitarian crises.

The Gran Grif gang, responsible for this attack, has become emblematic of a broader trend of violence that has escalated throughout Haiti. Although Port-au-Prince has long been notorious for gang violence, recent events indicate that rural regions like Artibonite are now experiencing severe unrest. Al Jazeera reports that gangs control approximately 80% of Port-au-Prince, and their influence is rapidly expanding to other areas. The UN Human Rights Office noted that this year alone, over 3,661 people have been killed due to gang-related violence, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.

The violence has exacerbated existing humanitarian issues, particularly in Artibonite, which is a crucial agricultural region. The ongoing insecurity significantly hinders agricultural production, contributing to widespread hunger. Currently, about half of Haiti’s population suffers from acute food scarcity.

In a recent press release, the Minister of Justice and Public Security addressed the violence, stating, “formal instructions were given to the Haitian National Police to restore order.” Furthermore, Prime Minister Garry Conille condemned the violence as an “atrocious crime,” reiterating the government’s commitment to restoring order. The National Police of Haiti announced the deployment of specialized units to enforce order in the area. The local community reportedly welcomed the presence of these security forces, emphasizing their desperate need for safety amidst escalating violence.

In the aftermath of the attack, around 3,000 residents were forced to flee their homes as gang members set fire to at least 45 houses and 34 vehicles during the assault. This mass displacement adds another layer to the ongoing humanitarian crisis, as communities struggle to find safety and stability.

The UN has called for increased international assistance to address the escalating violence and support stabilization efforts in the country. A UN led international security force of 400 Kenyan personnel has been deployed in Haiti to support state police, but Reuters reports that the force has been slow to respond and is underfunded. An additional 2,900 troops from Jamaica, Belize, the Bahamas and Benin have been pledged but these forces have yet to mobilize. The situation underscores the urgent need for coordinated action from global partners to help restore peace and security in Haiti.

The tragic events in Pont-Sonde are not isolated incidents but rather part of a larger pattern of violence that threatens the very fabric of Haitian society. As gangs expand their reach into rural areas, the implications for food security, public safety, and humanitarian conditions become increasingly dire. The international community’s response will be crucial in addressing these challenges and supporting Haiti’s path toward stability and recovery.