Deadly Prison Break in Haiti

A prison break in Saint-Marc, central Haiti, has led to the deaths of at least 11 inmates during confrontations with police, marking the third such incident this year amid escalating gang violence and a humanitarian crisis. The escape occurred on Friday, with police confirming that the situation is now under control, although significant damage was reported, including the destruction of police dormitories and archives. Local officials, including Saint-Marc Mayor Myriam Fievre, have reported varying casualty figures, with some sources indicating as many as 12 inmates were killed. The unrest in Haiti's prison system is exacerbated by severe overcrowding and deteriorating conditions, with many facilities operating well beyond capacity. Reports suggest that prison officials had been on strike, demanding better treatment, which raises concerns about potential complicity among guards in the escape. The National Police have called for public assistance in identifying the escaped inmates, as gunfire and smoke were reported near the prison during the incident. This prison break follows a series of violent events earlier this year, including coordinated attacks by gangs that resulted in the release of thousands of inmates from the country’s largest prisons. The ongoing violence has led to significant political instability, including the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry and the establishment of a transitional presidential council. The United Nations has highlighted the dire humanitarian situation, with approximately 600,000 people displaced and nearly half the population facing severe hunger.