UN says at least 5,700 killed or wounded in Haiti gang crisis this year
Summary
At least 5,700 people have been killed or wounded in Haiti’s gang violence this year, and more than 1,000 women and girls have been raped, the UN human rights chief said. The UN says the security force meant to help Haiti remains far below strength as the country prepares for elections and a constitutional referendum in December.
Key Points
- UN rights chief Volker Turk said Haiti's gang violence has left at least 5,700 people dead or wounded this year.
- More than 1,000 women and girls have been raped, and 230 kidnappings were recorded up to September 11, with real figures likely higher.
- The UN-backed Gang Suppression Force remains far below its intended strength of 5,500 personnel and needs faster deployment.
- Haiti is preparing for its first elections in a decade and a constitutional referendum on December 13 amid continued violence.
