UNITED NATIONS, United States (CMC) — The United Nations says it has been made aware of the “horrific report” of human rights abuses in Haiti resulting in the killing of at least 61 people, including 14 children, during the period July 4-9.

The United Nations spokesman, Stéphane Dujarric, said that reports from “our human rights colleagues” indicated that the “Village de Dieu gang carried out a series of attacks in Kenscoff and Pétion-Ville, in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area, killing at least 61 residents, including 14 children.

“Residents were killed while attempting to flee, inside their homes, or after encountering gang members on roads and footpaths. The violence was concentrated in the community of Robin, where the majority of casualties were recorded,” Dujarric said.

He said that at least 5,840 people were displaced, while homes and telecommunications infrastructure were just outright destroyed.

“Although the last documented attack took place on 9 July, the situation remains tense, with gang members continuing to maintain a presence in Kenscoff,” Dujarric added.

Meanwhile, Minister of Justice and Public Security (MJSP), Patrick Pélissier, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the representative of the Gang Supression Force (GSF), diplomat Jack Christofidès.

This agreement provides for the transfer to Haitian authorities of individuals arrested, as well as weapons, ammunition, and other equipment seized during operations conducted by the GSF throughout the country.

The authorities in Haiti said that through this initiative, the government states its intention to strengthen public security and create favourable conditions for the upcoming elections.