The government of Haiti imposed a 72-hour state of emergency after armed gangs raided a major prison in Port-au-Prince, resulting in the deaths of 12 individuals and the escape of approximately 4,000 inmates. This alarming incident occurred amidst ongoing turmoil in the capital, where violent gang wars have claimed thousands of lives since 2020.
The armed groups behind the attack have demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who is currently out of the country. These groups, which control a significant portion of Port-au-Prince, are determined to remove Henry from office.
The recent unrest in Haiti is exacerbated by political instability following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021. Gang leader Jimmy Chérizier, also known as “Barbecue,” has spearheaded efforts to overthrow the government, claiming unity among armed groups across the nation.
The chaos in Haiti has prompted the government to implement a nighttime curfew in response to the prison breakouts. Two prisons, including one in Port-au-Prince and another in Croix des Bouquets, were targeted in coordinated attacks over the weekend.
The violence and insecurity in Haiti have persisted since Moïse’s assassination, with the country struggling to establish a stable government and hold elections. Despite a political agreement stipulating elections and Henry’s resignation by February 7, the situation remains precarious.
As Haiti grapples with escalating violence and political turmoil, the international community closely monitors the situation, eager to see stability restored in this troubled nation.
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