December 5, 2025
Between June 1 and August 31, 2025, the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) recorded 2,123 victims of intentional homicide across the country, including 161 women, 16 girls, and 29 boys—a 10% overall decrease compared with the previous three months. Despite this national trend, the Artibonite and Centre departments have seen an explosion of violence, with 1,303 victims recorded since January, compared with 419 during the same period in 2024, marking a 210% increase.
Gangs have intensified their operations in Kenscoff and rural areas, destroying police stations and armored vehicles, killing police officers and civilians, and temporarily occupying strategic sites. In July and August, 22 residents were killed and 9 injured in Kenscoff, while an accidental drone explosion killed two police officers and injured six others. In the West, an attack in Labodrie (Cabaret) left over 42 dead, and in Artibonite, violence resulted in 42 deaths and 29 injuries, with several police stations set on fire.
Kidnappings also remain a major concern. Between June and August, 334 people were abducted by gangs—including 69 women, 10 girls, and 14 boys—compared to 328 in the previous period. These attacks highlight the ability of armed groups to exploit logistical weaknesses and the limited presence of security forces.
To address this crisis, the Haitian National Police (PNH) has taken several measures, including the appointment of an interim director general, the declaration of a state of emergency in the hardest-hit departments, and the reinforcement of personnel. As of August 31, the police force numbered 13,501 officers, including 1,776 women, with 892 new recruits beginning training in early October. However, operational gaps persist: 25 armored vehicles are out of service, 23 have been destroyed, and 2 are in the hands of gangs, while 79 police stations remain non-operational.
Despite these challenges, the police have received increased international support. Several police stations have been renovated, vehicles and ambulances delivered, and specialized training sessions organized in collaboration with the OAS. Coordination mechanisms with donors have also been established to enhance the effectiveness of interventions and strengthen security in the country, according to the latest BINUH report presented to the UN Security Council.
