Gang Attack and Mass Prison Escape Targeting the Mirebalais Region (2025)

A gang attack targeting the Mirebalais region occurred on 1 April 2025 in Haiti, resulting in the escape of over 500 prisoners from a prison. The attack involved coordinated actions by numerous armed individuals against buildings and the prison facility.

Gang attack on the Mirebalais region – Anadolu Agency

Course of Events

On 1 April 2025, the city of Mirebalais, located northeast of the capital Port-au-Prince, was subjected to an organized assault by armed gangs. The perpetrators were reported to belong to two armed groups known as “400 Mawozo” and “Taliban,” both of which are part of a larger gang alliance called “Viv Ansam.”

During the attack, multiple buildings were targeted, and vehicles and structures were set on fire. The local police station was seized, followed by a raid on the prison. Authorities confirmed that between 500 and 530 inmates escaped. Local sources reported that some of the escaped prisoners were seen roaming the streets.

Security Forces’ Intervention and the Status of the Prisoners

The Haitian National Police announced that it had deployed additional forces to the area following the attack and regained control. The region lies at the intersection of two major highways leading north from the capital toward the Dominican Republic. In the aftermath of the attack, classes were suspended at some schools in the region.

During the events in Mirebalais, security forces deployed as part of Haiti’s Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission also intervened in the clashes. The MSS mission began operations in July 2024 and comprises approximately 1,000 personnel, the majority of whom are provided by Kenya.

Two Kenyan police officers were injured during the attack. One injury resulted from a bullet penetrating a protective helmet and striking the head. The other injury occurred when a bullet passing through the exterior of an armored vehicle struck an officer’s ear. Complaints were raised regarding the inadequate protection offered by the armored vehicles, with reports indicating that some vehicles were no longer being used. MSS officials announced plans to hold meetings with relevant authorities to address the issues related to protective equipment.

Background of Gang Violence in Haiti

Haiti has experienced high levels of violence caused by armed gangs throughout 2024. According to United Nations data, over 5,600 people were killed, 2,212 were injured, and 1,494 were kidnapped in the country during that year. More than 80 percent of the capital Port-au-Prince remains under the control of armed gangs.