December 23, 2024
The massacre in Pont-Sondé, which occurred during the night of October 2-3, 2024, has sparked strong reactions both nationally and internationally. Armed individuals, identified as members of the Gran Grif gang from Savien, led by Luckson Élan, attacked this locality near Saint-Marc, killing over 40 people and wounding many others. This brutal attack was preceded by a threatening voice message, plunging the population into a state of anticipated terror.
The international community has expressed outrage over these events. The U.S. Embassy in Haiti strongly condemned the massacre and offered condolences to the victims’ families. It reaffirmed its support for the Haitian National Police (HNP) and the Ministry of Public Health (MSPP) in efforts to restore security in the country. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the deadly attack, calling the gang’s actions barbaric, and urged UN member states to provide logistical and financial assistance to Haiti in its fight against insecurity. The French Embassy in Haiti also vehemently condemned the violence and reiterated its support for Haitian authorities in their efforts to restore peace, particularly through backing the HNP and the Haitian Armed Forces (FADH).
In response to this urgent situation, the Haitian National Police announced the deployment of the Temporary Anti-Gang Unit (UTAG) to reinforce the existing forces on the ground. In a statement, the HNP called on the public to remain calm and cooperate fully under the Police-Population Partnership (PPP), aimed at strengthening ties between law enforcement and citizens. The Ministry of Justice also responded by issuing firm instructions to track down and apprehend those responsible for the violence. These actions are intended to restore order in the Artibonite region and ensure the safety of citizens, as thousands of residents have fled the area to seek refuge in Saint-Marc amid the escalating violence.