UN Warns of Gang Control in Haiti Amid Escalating Violence

Updated July 03, 2025

The United Nations warned Wednesday ⁤that gangs in Haiti have gained “near-total control” of Port-au-Prince, the nation’s capital.U.N.officials say authorities are struggling ⁤to contain the escalating violence that plagues the already impoverished Caribbean country. The gang violence has paralyzed the ⁣city.

Ghada Fathy waly, executive director of the U.N. Office on Drugs ⁤and ⁤Crime,told the U.N. Security Council that approximately 90% of Port-au-Prince is now under ‍the⁤ control of criminal groups.These groups are expanding their attacks into previously peaceful areas, exacerbating the⁣ political instability.

Waly noted that southern Haiti, once relatively safe, has seen a ⁢sharp increase in gang-related incidents. In the east, criminal groups exploit land routes, attacking police and customs officials at key⁣ crossings like Belladere and‍ Malpasse. The humanitarian crisis deepens⁤ as a result.

According to Waly,the ⁢state’s authority is rapidly diminishing as gang control expands. Criminal groups are filling the void left by limited public‍ services, establishing “parallel governance structures.” Gang control of major trade routes has paralyzed legal commerce,causing⁢ prices for essential⁤ goods like cooking fuel ⁣and rice to skyrocket.

What’s next

The ⁢situation in Haiti remains dire, with the U.N. continuing to call for international support to address the escalating ‍violence