NEW YORK, United States (CMC)–Amnesty International has condemned what it describes as a “widespread failure” by Haitian authorities and the international community to protect civilians, following a deadly massacre in the Artibonite region.

The international human rights watchdog was responding to the March 29 attack in Petite-Rivière de l’Artibonite, reportedly carried out by the violent “Gran Grif” gang.

Astrid Valencia, Amnesty’s deputy director for research in the Americas, said the killings represent yet another tragedy in a cycle of unchecked violence.

“This crime once again highlights the human cost of the authorities’ inability to protect the population,” she said, calling for urgent action to ensure accountability and lasting security.

Initial reports indicate at least 16 people were killed and 10 injured, although United Nations officials say the death toll could be as high as 70. Homes were burned, properties looted, and thousands displaced.

The incident comes amid escalating gang violence across Haiti, with a recent UN human rights report warning that armed groups continue to expand beyond Port-au-Prince into other regions, including Artibonite.

According to UN data, more than 5,500 people were killed and over 2,600 injured between March 2025 and January 2026, as gangs, security forces and vigilante groups all contributed to the violence.

The report details widespread abuses, including killings, kidnappings, extortion, and the use of sexual violence—particularly against women and girls—as a tool of control and intimidation.

It also raises concerns about excessive use of force by police, as well as the involvement of private security contractors in operations, with little apparent oversight or accountability.

United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk stressed the need for authorities to restore security while upholding human rights and addressing impunity.

While some progress has been made in strengthening the justice system, the report notes that accountability for corruption, gang financing and human rights abuses remains limited.

The UN has since established a new Gang Suppression Force, but officials warn that long-term success will depend on tackling the root causes of violence, including inequality and weak institutions.