Nearly 200 people were killed in Haiti over the weekend in a wave of brutal violence reportedly targeting voodoo practitioners. The government on Monday condemned the massacre, calling it an act of “unbearable cruelty” and vowed to bring those responsible to justice.
According to local reports, armed groups orchestrated coordinated attacks across multiple communities, targeting individuals accused of practicing voodoo. Survivors described harrowing scenes, with homes set ablaze and victims brutally executed. The attacks have sparked widespread fear and outrage in a nation where voodoo is a recognized religion deeply rooted in Haitian culture and history.
Haiti’s Prime Minister Ariel Henry denounced the killings, stating, “This barbaric act is a violation of human rights and an assault on our cultural heritage.” He called for urgent international assistance to address the worsening security crisis in the country, which has been plagued by gang violence, political instability, and economic hardship.
Human rights groups have expressed concern that the massacre may further destabilize the region and escalate sectarian tensions. “These killings reflect a dangerous rise in intolerance and the failure of authorities to protect vulnerable communities,” said Pierre Espérance, a leading human rights activist in Haiti.
The United Nations has called for an independent investigation into the killings and urged the Haitian government to take immediate steps to restore order and ensure the safety of its citizens.
This massacre is the latest tragedy to strike Haiti, where escalating violence has left countless communities terrorized and forced thousands to flee their homes. As the nation mourns the victims, the international community is being urged to intervene to prevent further atrocities.