Haiti declared a state of emergency and nighttime curfew after violent incidents, including armed gangs storming prisons.
The government aims to capture criminals who escaped.
“The police were ordered to use all legal means at their disposal to enforce the curfew and apprehend all offenders,” Finance Minister Patrick Boivert stated.
The violence, including attacks on state institutions and prison breaks, has escalated, leading to deaths and chaos.
Gangs are coordinating attacks, even targeting unusual places like the Central Bank.
“Please, please help us,” inmate Francisco Uribe said online. “They are massacring people indiscriminately inside the cells.”
“I didn’t flee because I’m innocent,” Uribe said.
“They need help,” a union for police stated. “Let’s mobilize the army and the police to prevent the bandits from breaking into the prison.”
The U.S. Embassy urged American citizens to leave Haiti due to the deteriorating security situation.
Prime Minister Ariel Henry faces challenges in restoring order amid calls for his resignation.
