Haiti: Armed gang members kill at least five people, injure several others in Liancourt July 14

Event

Armed gang members killed at least five people and injured several others in the commune of Liancourt in Artibonite Department on July 14. Reports indicate that assailants looted businesses and set multiple buildings and vehicles on fire. Local witnesses suggest at least 10 people have been injured in the incident. While the motive of the incident remains unclear, the attack is likely to have been perpetrated by the Gran Grif de Savien gang that operates in the area.

Authorities may deploy to the area to prevent further attacks in the short term. Locals may stage protests to denounce the perceived government's inaction to stem the violence. Further violence is possible in the coming weeks, especially as police presence in the area remains extremely limited.

Advice

Consider deferring travel to areas of rural Haiti where communal violence is known to occur frequently and police presence is limited. If such travel is unavoidable, exercise extreme caution. Refrain from traveling at night. Heed instructions issued by local authorities. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.