UN rights chief says gang violence in Haiti has killed or injured at least 5,700 people this year

2 October 2026

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk told the Human Rights Council on 2 October 2026 that gang violence in Haiti continues to "adapt and expand".
At least 5,700 people have been confirmed killed or injured by gangs, or in operations against them, since 1 January, according to OHCHR.
Gangs have kidnapped more than 230 people and raped at least 1,000 women and girls; Türk said the real figures are likely much higher.
He welcomed the first operations of the Gang Suppression Force, mandated by the UN Security Council, but said it "remains far below the strength needed".
He called for its full, accelerated deployment with human rights safeguards built in.