Mirebalais, August 9, 2025.- Attacks by armed groups on the municipality of Mirebalais are increasing. On Thursday, August 7, the National Police of Haiti (PNH), supported by the local self-defence group, foiled an offensive launched by members of the coalition « Viv Ansanm ». Several bandits were fatally injured in exchange of fire.
Speaking on Radio Kiskeya, Zacharie Exil confirmed that the bandits had simultaneously attacked Roseau Plaza and several nearby communities of Lascahobas, including Haut Sarazin. Six members of « Viv Ansanm » Others were captured by armed civilians. No injuries were reported in the police ranks or among self-defence groups.
It should be recalled that last April, a murderous raid in Mirebalais led to the escape of 500 detainees. The PNH had then killed 30 gang members, but the armed groups continue to maintain their presence in the Central Department, forcing many residents to flee, according to a Ministry of Defence official.
Despite the recent installation of Commissioner Mackenzie Jacques in the Departmental Directorate of Central Police, attacks persist. In July, gang leader Lanmò San Jou, accompanied by his allies Jimmy Cherizier and Jeff « Gwo Lwa », had even paraded at the traditional Saut-d'Eau festival, illustrating the blatant lack of state control.
Today, the Director General of the PNH, André Jonas Vladimir Paraison, newly installed, promised to mobilize all police forces to restore security. It remains to be seen whether this new leadership will bear fruit in the face of the alarming increase in gang violence in Haiti.
W.E.
