Haiti's Descent: Gangs Tighten Grip Amidst Political Turmoil

Amidst escalating violence in Haiti, criminal gangs exert near-total control over Port-au-Prince. UN officials report gang expansion into previously peaceful areas, crippling public services and trade. Political turmoil and inadequate international support hinder efforts to stabilize the nation, as vigilante groups rise in response to the chaos.

Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince, is under siege as criminal gangs gain near-total control, according to UN officials. The once vibrant city now faces spiraling violence, intense political turmoil, and an unchecked rise in gang power.

Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, Ghada Fathy Waly, highlighted the alarming expansion of gang influence into previously peaceful regions, including southern Haiti, which now experiences sharp increases in gang-related incidents.

UN Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenca warns that without stronger international intervention, the Haitian state's presence in Port-au-Prince might collapse entirely. The situation, exacerbated by political instability and corruption, sees little progress in restoring security or planning national elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)