Mass Prison Break in Haiti Amid Gang Violence

In a dramatic escalation of unrest in Haiti, armed gang members launched a bold attack on a prison in Mirebalais, leading to the escape of a significant number of inmates. Initial reports indicate that over 500 prisoners may have fled the facility on Monday, although official confirmation of the exact number is still pending.

The incident unfolded as members of the gang coalition known as Viv Ansanm (Together We Live) targeted the local police station before storming the prison, setting vehicles and homes ablaze in the process. According to local media, at least four individuals lost their lives during the gang's assault in the Centre Department, highlighting the severe security crisis plaguing the region.

In response to the escalating violence, Haiti's National Police announced the deployment of additional units to Mirebalais to assist local law enforcement in restoring order. Mirebalais, located approximately 55 kilometers northeast of the capital, Port-au-Prince, has become a hotspot for gang activity, reflecting a broader trend of instability across the country.

Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, Haiti has been engulfed in chaos, with rampant gang violence leading to significant loss of life and widespread displacement. Reports from the United Nations indicate that more than 5,000 people were killed in gang-related incidents in 2024 alone, with gangs controlling over 80% of the capital.

The prison break underscores the dire situation in Haiti, where the rule of law has deteriorated, and public safety remains a critical concern. As the government and law enforcement struggle to contain the violence, the humanitarian crisis continues to escalate, affecting countless lives throughout the nation.