Gang violence has surged in Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, spreading into the upscale neighborhoods of Laboule and Thomassin and leading to at least a dozen deaths. The attacks have seen gunmen looting homes and forcing many residents to flee. These areas, previously considered safe havens amid the city’s escalating gang violence, are now scenes of terror with bodies discovered on the streets, including that of a person found inside a taxi. This recent wave of violence in the capital began late last month and has continued despite the resignation announcement of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, pending the formation of a transitional presidential council.

The political instability, magnified by Henry’s resignation and the delayed establishment of the council, has left the nation in uncertainty. Gangs have exploited this power vacuum, contributing to the ongoing turmoil and leaving authorities struggling to restore peace. The situation is further complicated by the destruction of vital infrastructure, including four power substations, which has left significant portions of Port-au-Prince without electricity.

In response to this crisis, the Haitian government has implemented measures like extending nighttime curfews and is working towards stabilizing the situation. Moreover, plans for a UN-backed Kenyan police force to assist in containing the violence are on hold until the transitional council is established. Political rivalries and the struggle for power continue to hinder progress towards establishing this council and, by extension, stability in Haiti.

The violence has prompted reactions from the international community, with notable actions including the evacuation of US citizens from Haiti. Caribbean leaders have also made efforts to support the establishment of the transitional council in effort to quell the violence. The country remains in a state of unrest as efforts to combat the gang violence and political instability continue.