Gang violence in Haiti continues to cripple the small Caribbean nation, with 1,520 people killed during the second quarter of 2025 alone.
Despite efforts by the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM), working in close collaboration with the Haitian National Police, gangs continue to terrorise civilians, creating a grim picture of human rights violations.
On 1 August, the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) released a report detailing the disturbing human rights situation in the country. It revealed that between April and June 2025, at least 1,520 people were killed and 609 injured — mostly in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area. At least 185 people were kidnapped, while 628 cases of sexual violence were recorded, including instances of sexual slavery, child exploitation, and trafficking.
“These attacks continue to result in serious human rights violations and worsen an already extreme humanitarian situation,” said Ulrika Richardson, acting head of BINUH and UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Haiti. “The consequences are dramatic, especially for women and children.”
According to the report, 24% of those killed or injured were targeted by criminal groups. Some 64% of casualties occurred during security force operations against such groups, with over a third caused by explosive drone attacks. At least 15% of the victims were civilians caught in crossfire or attacked in their homes, raising serious concerns about police conduct.
At least four members of the security forces died during interventions, but some officers were accused of involvement in 73 summary executions. Additionally, 12% of killings or injuries were linked to vigilante violence by self-defence groups targeting suspected gang members or collaborators.
The report also noted that more than 1.3 million people were internally displaced as of 30 June, underscoring the expansion of gang violence across the country.
The Kenyan-led MSSM may have to prepare for further escalation, as it continues to struggle with underfunding and understaffing. The mission currently has 991 personnel — only 39.6% of the 2,500 initially planned. June 2025 marked one year since the first contingent of police officers was deployed to Haiti.
Despite these challenges, MSSM spokesperson Jack Ombaka reported on 5 August that the mission has managed to secure key national infrastructure, including Haiti’s main international airport, seaport, and other strategic assets. It has also reopened major routes in downtown Port-au-Prince, Kenscoff, Furcy, and Delmas, despite repeated attempts by armed gangs to block roads.
However, armed groups still hold the upper hand. Over 3,000 people have been killed in Haiti in 2025, with an estimated 80% of Port-au-Prince under gang control. The Kenyan contingent has suffered casualties, including the death of officer Samuel Tompoi Kaetuai in February and the disappearance of Benedict Kabiru during a gang ambush in March.
– By Anthony Mwangi
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