June 17, 2026
The organization Human Rights Watch states that Haitian security forces, supported by private contractors, have carried out large-scale deadly drone strikes. According to a report published on March 10, some of these operations could constitute extrajudicial executions.
These attacks were reportedly conducted using quadcopter drones loaded with explosives in densely populated urban neighborhoods. Civilians, including children and residents with no ties to criminal groups, are among the victims.
Based on data analyzed by the organization, 1,243 people were killed in 141 strikes between March 2025 and January 2026. Among them were at least 43 adults not affiliated with gangs and 17 children, while another 738 people were injured.
“Dozens of civilians, including many children, have been affected by these operations,” said Juanita Goebertus, Americas director at Human Rights Watch. She called on Haitian authorities to strictly regulate these operations before more victims are recorded.
