Human Rights Watch reports that drone attacks by Haitian security forces against gangs have resulted in over 1,200 deaths, including civilians and children.
According to a report by Human Rights Watch published on Tuesday, Haitian security forces have conducted drone attacks against gangs that have led to the deaths of over 1,200 individuals, among whom are 43 adult civilians and 17 children. The report indicates that these military operations have escalated in scope over the recent months, particularly in the densely populated areas of Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti.
The operations are reportedly supported by Vectus Global, a private military company based in the United States and led by Erik Prince, founder of Blackwater. Human Rights Watch highlights the implications of using drone strikes in urban settings, raising concerns over the high number of civilian casualties and the rule of law. The consequences of such actions not only impact the immediate community but also challenge the legitimacy of the Haitian state as it seeks to regain control over areas dominated by gangs.
In light of this report, the offices of Haiti's Prime Minister, the Defense Minister, the national police, Vectus, and the U.S. State Department have yet to respond to media inquiries for comments. This silence raises questions about accountability and the role of foreign military companies in local conflicts, as well as the broader implications regarding human rights in humanitarian crises.
