# Gang violence in Kenscoff, Haiti

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/20260825-gang-violence-in-kenscoff-haiti
> Updated: 2026-08-25T02:25:09.000Z. Sources: 56. Developments: 2.

In late August 2026, armed gangs, including groups such as Viv Ansanm, launched a violent assault on the Kenscoff commune east of Port-au-Prince. The attackers targeted a church being used as a shelter for displaced persons, burning homes and vehicles while abducting residents.

Death toll estimates have fluctuated as reports emerged. Initial reports cited at least 20 deaths, while the RNDDH estimated between 30 and 40 fatalities. Local official Adrien Alté provided a provisional report suggesting the toll could reach 47. Victims reportedly included women, children, and young people.

Kenscoff Mayor Massillon Jean confirmed that the attackers targeted several neighborhoods during the night of August 23 and the early hours of August 24. The raid included the execution of several individuals and caused dozens of injuries.

The massacre has triggered significant civil unrest. Residents have gathered to protest the government’s inability to curb violence that has persisted in the area for over 20 months. While the Haitian government placed security forces on maximum alert and announced reinforcements would be sent to the area, and officials, including Provisional President Jocelerme Priveret, visited the site, the Office for Citizen Protection (OPC) has called for urgent investigations and measures to restore security.

## Claims

- The mayor of Kenscoff reported approximately 40 deaths following the attack. (disputed by 3 sources)
- The UN recorded 262 deaths and 66 injuries in Kenscoff between January 27 and March 27, 2025. (disputed)
- Gang members targeted a displaced persons camp located inside a church. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Several individuals remain missing following the violence. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The attack resulted in dozens of wounded people and several abductions. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The Haitian government announced it would send reinforcements to restore security in Kenscoff. (corroborated by 2 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-25: Kenscoff massacre: Gang attack in Haiti leaves dozens dead

Armed gangs attacked Kenscoff, Haiti, killing approximately 40 people, including those in a church-based displaced persons camp. The government has declared a maximum security alert.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kenscoff-gang-attack-kills-at-least-40-people-in-haiti

### 2026-08-22: Kenscoff, Haiti: Gang attack leaves dozens dead

Armed gangs attacked Kenscoff, Haiti, killing between 20 and 47 people. The assault targeted a church shelter for displaced persons, destroyed homes, and prompted the government to place security forces on high

49 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cholera-resurgence-threatens-displaced-populations-in-port-au-prince

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Cite as: Gang violence in Kenscoff, Haiti. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/20260825-gang-violence-in-kenscoff-haiti