On a day when many Haitians celebrated the 222nd anniversary of the historic Battle of Vertières, residents of the coastal town of Arcahaie fought to defend their community from armed gangs. The battle, pivotal in Haiti’s history, marked the nation’s path to becoming the world’s first Black republic. However, the atmosphere in Arcahaie was anything but festive as local authorities and residents joined forces to repel ongoing attacks from heavily armed criminal groups.
According to Mayor Jean Edner Gilles, the situation escalated on Monday as gangs attempted to seize control of the town. “We are holding them off for the moment,” Gilles told The Associated Press. Tragically, the violence has already claimed the life of a police officer, who was shot in the head during the confrontation. Several residents have also sustained injuries, although specific numbers remain unverified as police have yet to compile a comprehensive report.
Escalating Violence Amid Celebrations
The violence in Arcahaie is part of a broader trend affecting regions north of Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, where gangs have been expanding their influence. A recent United Nations report highlighted that from July to September 2023, more than 1,240 people were killed and 710 others injured nationwide due to clashes involving police, gangs, and self-defense groups. Nearly 20% of these incidents occurred in the central department of Artibonite, where Arcahaie is located.
Mayor Gilles urged community members to remain vigilant, assuring them that the gangs’ days are numbered. His message echoed a sentiment of resistance and resilience in the face of increasing violence. “My message to my brothers and sisters in the community is to remain vigilant like true fighters,” he stated. “As for the gangs, their days are numbered if they want to continue to penetrate our community.”
International Efforts to Combat Gang Violence
The situation in Haiti has drawn international attention, with a U.N.-backed mission led by Kenyan police attempting to assist local authorities in combatting the gang violence. However, this initiative remains underfunded and understaffed. In late September, the U.N. Security Council approved the formation of a gang-suppression force with the authority to arrest suspected gang members, but this force has yet to be deployed.
During the anniversary celebrations, Laurent Saint-Cyr, leader of Haiti’s transitional presidential council, addressed the ongoing violence, condemning those responsible for the turmoil. “It’s a moment for us to take a little time to look at ourselves in the mirror and make a clear commitment to honor the great chain of sacrifices our ancestors made for us,” he said. He pledged to prioritize the country’s security and stability as part of a broader national effort to address the escalating crisis.
While the people of Arcahaie contend with their immediate threat, the streets of Port-au-Prince were eerily quiet following a call from the powerful gang coalition known as Viv Ansanm. They warned residents to stay off the streets as they prepared to confront police forces. Despite the tense climate, local police reported conducting offensive operations in certain gang-dominated areas of the capital, stating that “criminal strongholds [were] destroyed” and “bandits [were] neutralized” without police casualties.
The unfolding events in Arcahaie and beyond underscore the fragility of security in Haiti. As the nation reflects on its historical victories, the current struggles against gang violence serve as a stark reminder of the challenges that persist in achieving peace and stability.
