(MENAFN) A recent quarterly report by the United Nations on Haiti has revealed that 1,247 people were killed and 710 injured between July and September.

The UN’s Human Rights Service identified multiple actors behind the violence, including armed gangs, self-defense groups, unorganized civilians, and Haitian security forces conducting both ground operations and air strikes. While roughly 30% of the murders were linked to gang activity, the report indicated that most deaths—61%—resulted from actions by Haitian security forces, including drone strikes, ground operations, and excessive use of force, such as summary executions. An additional 9% of killings were attributed to self-defense groups and lynch mobs.

Men made up 83% of the victims, while women accounted for 14% and children 3%, reflecting patterns noted in previous UN findings.

The report also flagged the recruitment and exploitation of children by gangs as one of the most severe human rights crises in Haiti. Official data shows that at least 302 children were recruited by gangs in 2024, though the UN emphasizes that the actual number is likely much higher. Testimonies gathered from authorities, local service providers, and international humanitarian groups indicate a marked increase in child recruitment.

The UN further warned that underreporting remains a significant barrier due to fear of reprisals, social stigma, and widespread distrust of law enforcement and judicial systems, meaning only a portion of victims come forward.

In addition, the report highlighted pervasive sexual violence in gang-controlled areas, particularly gang rapes occurring during home invasions or street assaults.

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