January 29, 2026
On the night of Wednesday, October 2 to Thursday, October 3, the Gran Grif gang from Savien, led by Luckson Élan, attacked the locality of Pont-Sondé, located just a few kilometers from Saint-Marc. The assault resulted in at least 11 deaths and over 20 serious injuries. The assailants set buildings on fire and executed civilians indiscriminately, showing no regard for age or gender. A voice message from Luckson Élan, broadcast 24 hours before the attack on major networks, had clearly announced this criminal act, leaving the population in a state of fear.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, the Saint-Marc hospital has been completely overwhelmed by the influx of injured people requiring urgent care. Thousands of residents have fled the area, seeking refuge in Saint-Marc to escape the violence. In response to the crisis, calls for citizen solidarity have been made to assist the displaced compatriots.
Reacting to the attack, the Ministry of Justice and Public Security (MJSP) issued a strong statement on Thursday, October 3. The minister announced that formal instructions have been given to the Haitian National Police to restore order in the Artibonite region and relentlessly pursue those responsible for the violence. “These crimes will not go unpunished. The perpetrators and their accomplices will be pursued to their last hiding place,” assured the ministry, expressing a determined will to end the impunity enjoyed by these criminals.
The MJSP also reaffirmed its commitment to take all necessary measures to restore peace in the country, so that citizens can live without fear and go about their daily lives freely. The government, fully aware of the seriousness of the situation, intends to act firmly against the violence that continues to shake the Artibonite department.
