A woman is currently under police custody in Haiti after confessing her alleged responsibility in the death of approximately 40 individuals, supposed members of a criminal organization, by supplying poisoned pastries in the commune of Kenscoff, Port-au-Prince district. The woman, a vendor, allegedly prepared the food, locally known as "patés," using caterpillar oil, a potent agricultural pesticide.
Following the incident, remaining members of the criminal group reportedly attacked the vendor's residence, who had already evacuated the place to turn herself in to the authorities and seek protection. In her statement to the police, the woman allegedly claimed to have acted alone. This event occurs in a context of severe escalation of violence in Haiti, where criminal groups have extended their control in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and surrounding areas. The violence involves armed gangs, self-defense groups, unorganized citizens, and security force operations.
Reports from local press indicate that the poisoned pastries were allegedly offered to members of "Viv Ansanm," a gang coalition recently labeled as a "terrorist organization" by the U.S. government. According to sources, after consuming the food, around 40 people experienced acute symptoms, including seizures and intense abdominal pain, dying before they could receive medical assistance.
A recent report from the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) indicated that, during the first three months of this year, 1,617 violent deaths and 580 injuries were recorded in Haiti.
