Kenscoff massacre: Gang violence leaves 47 dead in Haiti

A violent gang attack in Kenscoff, located on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince, resulted in at least 47 deaths, including five children, and the kidnapping of approximately 50 people during the night of August 23–24, 2026. The assault involved the burning of homes, the looting of businesses, and the forced displacement of families.

Local residents have expressed intense anger toward state authorities, accusing them of inaction despite known threats. Many citizens claim the government failed in its duty to protect the population, with some calling for the resignation of officials from local to national levels. The violence has also devastated the local agricultural economy, forcing many farmers to abandon their lands as gangs take control of the area. In recent months, the instability in the region has contributed to the displacement of at least 3,000 people.