Armed gang members wielding automatic rifles attacked a town in Haiti’s key agricultural region, killing at least 70 people and forcing over 6,000 to flee.
The attack, which occurred early Thursday in Pont-Sonde in the Artibonite region, shocked even a country accustomed to violence.
Gran Grif gang leader Luckson Elan claimed responsibility, saying it was revenge for civilians’ inaction while police and vigilante groups targeted his men.
Around 6,270 people have fled, many seeking refuge with families in nearby Saint-Marc, while others are in temporary camps.
Gang members reportedly set fire to homes and vehicles, making it one of the deadliest attacks in recent years.
Prime Minister Garry Conille condemned the assault, calling it an attack on the entire nation.
Haitian police replaced the director in charge of the region and reinforced the area.
Despite reinforcements, the incident highlights the escalating conflict in Haiti, where armed gangs dominate much of the capital and nearby areas.
A lack of resistance by local police during the attack has drawn criticism, as many victims were shot execution-style, and homes were burned.
Rights organizations fear the death toll could rise further, as rumors of the massacre had been circulating for months.
The Artibonite region has witnessed some of the worst violence outside of the capital, and residents have long demanded more protection from authorities.
