This article was originally published on The Haitian Times, a partner of URL Media.
PORT-AU-PRINCE — Thousands of residents from Kenscoff’s Belot and Godet communities are in limbo after a violent gang assault on Jan. 28 left 50 dead, 11 injured, and 3,000 displaced, including 721 children.
More than Ten days after the attack, many survivors remain in makeshift shelters, including Furcy National School, Lycée Jean Paul II, and the Kenscoff mayor’s office, which now houses 223 families.
A night of terror in Belot and Godet
The attack saw heavily armed gang members storm homes, opening fire on civilians before setting houses ablaze. An entire family of eight was murdered, while others managed to flee into the mountains or seek refuge in Pétion-Ville’s public squares.
Despite prior security measures by local authorities, gangs managed to seize control of key routes, particularly an alternative passage connecting the West and Southeast departments—a crucial lifeline for travelers avoiding gang-controlled National Road #2 via Martissant and Carrefour.
Gangs target Kenscoff’s strategic location
Located less than eight miles from Pétion-Ville, Kenscoff’s mountainous terrain has historically served as a safe alternative route for residents and traders. However, gangs have intensified efforts to control the area, cutting off yet another critical passage for those seeking to escape violence in Port-au-Prince.
Here is a display of photos that offer a glimpse into the daily lives of thousands of displaced residents following the January 28 attack
The post Kenscoff attack displaces 3,000, including 721 children, as victims remain in limbo | PHOTOS appeared first on The Haitian Times.
Kenscoff attack displaces 3,000, including 721 children, as victims remain in limbo | PHOTOS was first posted on February 10, 2025 at 4:18 pm.
