In a distressing exodus on Tuesday, thousands evacuated the gang-afflicted Carrefour-Feuilles district of Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
An AFP observed the displacement of residents via cars, motorcycles, and even by foot.
The situation in the district has grown perilous, leading many people to leave behind their homes in a bid for safety.
Rise of Ti Lapli and gang dominance
The Carrefour-Feuilles area has seen a surge in violence, primarily instigated by a notorious gang leader, Renel Destina, often referred to by his alias, Ti Lapli.
Reports are that Destina is pursued by US authorities for crimes linked to the abduction of American nationals.
It is reported that the Haitian Civil Protection Department estimates the number of displaced residents to be at least 3,120, with indications that more evacuations will follow.
The once-protective presence of local police officers in the district has waned, enabling criminal elements to overpower, loot, and even set homes on fire.
In line with these accounts, official reports from Haitian authorities detail the burning of residences and the tragic loss of life, though exact figures remain undisclosed.
Desperate search for refuge
Reports are that the scene in Carrefour-Feuilles was emblematic of a community in turmoil, with images of residents balancing their belongings on their heads or stacking them atop vehicles.
In their quest for refuge, many have turned to public spaces and schools in more secure areas, as captured by social media.
The security situation sparked protests in the district on Monday, prompting intervention by the Haitian National Police.
Despite their promises to confront the gangs, many residents remain skeptical, continuing their exodus from the troubled district on Tuesday.
Read more about protest in Haiti amid gang violence
Haiti’s cry for safety: Thousands protest against mounting gang threats
Haiti’s mounting crisis
According to reports, current data suggests criminal gangs now dominate about 80 per cent of Port-au-Prince, ushering in an era where kidnappings, sexual assaults, thefts, and homicides have become daily occurrences.
Haiti’s struggles are multifaceted, encompassing economic, security, and political challenges. The assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021 exacerbated these issues.
