Tuesday, December 24, 2024, while the final preparations for the inauguration of the reopening of the general hospital closed since February 29 after being vandalized by one of the gangs of the "400 Mawozo" led by Johnson André alias "Izo", resident doctors, employees, a hundred patients as well as journalists were waiting for the arrival of the official convoy of the Minister of Health Duckenson Lorthe Blema, when heavily armed ambushed bandits from the gang led by Jimmy Cherisier alias "Barbecue" around 11:30 a.m. opened fire on the hospital to prevent the inauguration.

In a few seconds, panic seized the people present trapped under the deadly bullets. According to the available information that remains to be officially confirmed, at least ten people were injured, including 8 journalists (Petion Robens, Réginald Baltazar, Miracle Velondie, Florise Deronvil, Jean-Jack Aspèges, Jocelyn Justin, Rosemond Vernet and Arnord Junior Pierre), several of whom were seriously injured. At least 3 people were killed, 2 journalists (Markenzy Nathou and Jimmy Jean) according to Robest Dimanche, Spokesperson for the Online Media Collective.

Police officers were also reportedly injured and one police officer killed (Daniel Renaud), said Lionel Lazarre, Deputy Spokesperson for the Haitian National Police (PHN), without giving details or a toll.

The secure evacuations of at least a hundred people began around 1:00 p.m.

In a statement released the same day, the Government reacted firmly: "[...] This heinous act, which targets an institution dedicated to health and life, constitutes an unacceptable aggression against the very foundations of our society."

"[...] Security forces were immediately mobilized to secure the premises, protect staff on site and launch operations to identify and apprehend the criminals.” The Government affirms “No tolerance will be granted to those who attack the country’s vital services.”

"The Government is committed to taking all necessary measures to protect sensitive institutions and prevent such acts in the future.”

"The upcoming and secure reopening of the State University of Haiti Hospital will be tangible proof of the Government’s determination to defend the interests of the population and relentlessly combat the forces of chaos. »

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Reaction of the Minister of Public Health :

SL/ PI/ TB/ HaitiLibre