On October 4, 2024, armed members of the Gran Grif gang killed at least 70 people in the town of Pont-Sonde, Haiti, according to the United Nations' Human Rights Office. The attack occurred early Thursday, with the gang using automatic rifles to shoot at residents, resulting in at least 16 serious injuries.
UN spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan expressed horror at the violence, stating, "This odious crime against defenseless women, men, and children is not only an attack against victims but against the entire Haitian nation." The gang also set fire to at least 45 houses and 34 vehicles, forcing many residents to flee.
Haiti is currently facing a severe hunger crisis, with approximately half of its population struggling to find food due to rampant gang violence. The UN World Food Programme estimates that 5.4 million Haitians are experiencing difficulties accessing sufficient food, a record high for the country.