4000 prisoners escape as gangs attack Haiti’s biggest prison

Saturday saw a tumultuous event unfold as street gangs carried out a synchronized attack on Haiti’s largest prison, resulting in the escape of almost all 4,000 inmates.

As per Arnel Remy, a human rights lawyer associated with the prison, less than 100 detainees were still held by Sunday.

Remarkably, 18 former Colombian soldiers linked to the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise in July 2021 chose to remain behind.

This tragic incident triggered a surge in violence across the nation, with gangs now reportedly controlling around 80% of Port-au-Prince.

Following the prison raid, at least three deaths were reported, along with accounts of widespread violence within the facility.

Simultaneously, gangs targeted government buildings near the prison, allegedly to prevent the return of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who was overseas in Kenya negotiating a deal for a UN-backed international police force to help stabilize Haiti.

While the assault led to the liberation of thousands of prisoners, including influential gang members, it highlights the growing influence of criminal organizations in Haiti since Moise’s assassination.

Despite appeals for international aid, Haitian authorities have struggled to curb the violence, leading to the UN’s authorization of an international military force led by Kenya in October 2023.

Nevertheless, setbacks like Kenya’s constitutional ruling against the mission in January have impeded efforts to restore order, leaving Haitian leaders like Henry uncertain about the country’s future security.