Residents in central city of Saint-Marc have been advised by authorities to remain vigilant for escapees.
In a tragic incident, a recent prison break in central Haiti has led to the deaths of at least 11 inmates, marking the third such escape this year amidst widespread gang violence and a humanitarian crisis in the region.
Authorities reported that inmates broke out of a prison in the coastal city of Saint-Marc, resulting in several escapees engaging in deadly shootouts with police. Eleven suspected escapees were killed, with one arrest made, according to Michel Ange Louis Jeune, spokesperson for Haiti’s National Police.
The situation was described as catastrophic, with reports of burned facilities and damaged infrastructure. State Prosecutor Venson Francois urged residents to stay alert for any potential escapees.
The incident, believed to have stemmed from protests over poor living conditions and lack of basic necessities, highlights the dire situation in Haiti’s overcrowded prisons. With ongoing unrest and violence in the region, efforts are being made to restore order and ensure the safety of the population.