The Haitian government on Monday vowed a firm response to “neutralize” armed groups following the September 11, 2025, attack in Laboderie, a village in Cabaret, West Department, where more than 40 civilians were killed. Meanwhile, the Office of Citizen Protection (OPC), expressing shock, reminded the state of its obligations and demanded concrete action to safeguard the population.
Amid mounting criticism over official silence in the face of yet another surge in violence, the government issued a press release on September 15 declaring its “mobilization.”
In its statement, the government said the state is “fully mobilized” and engaged in “a relentless fight to eradicate insecurity.”
“These criminals, who cowardly target entire families, will not triumph: the Republic will never yield to barbarism,” the communiqué read.
The government said it has given “firm instructions” to the High Command of the Haitian National Police (PNH) to deploy specialized units to secure Cabaret, Arcahaie, and surrounding areas; to launch manhunts aimed at neutralizing the armed groups responsible; and to provide medical, psychological, and humanitarian assistance to victims’ families.
“The gangs will be hunted, neutralized, and annihilated. The Republic does not negotiate with terror,” the Prime Minister’s Office concluded.
OPC Denounces “Negligence,” Demands Action
In a separate statement Monday, the Office of Citizen Protection (OPC)—a public institution that promotes and defends human rights—expressed “pain” and “dismay” over the massacre.
The OPC reminded the government of “the imperative obligation of the state to guarantee the right to life,” enshrined in the Haitian Constitution and international treaties. Citing Article 19 of the Constitution, the OPC stressed that this right protects citizens “against all forms of executions.”
In sharp contrast to the government’s confident tone, the OPC criticized what it called the “negligence of those responsible for the country’s security.” The office “urges the Haitian state to adopt strong and appropriate measures” and directly called on the Superior Council of the National Police (CSPN) to “quickly design a security plan” enabling the PNH to “respond decisively.”
The OPC extended “its sincere condolences to grieving families” and demanded “an immediate response from the competent authorities so that justice may be served.”
As gang violence continues to spread, casting doubt on the state’s ability to protect its citizens, the population still awaits concrete measures to end impunity and restore peace to the national territory.
