Armed gangs seize Delmas 30, torch homes and force residents to flee 

Editor’s Note:
This is a developing story. The Haitian Times will provide updates as more information becomes available. Last updated at 3:00 p.m. EST.

PORT-AU-PRINCE —In a relentless surge of violence, armed gangs have seized control of the Delmas 30 neighborhood, setting homes ablaze and leaving families homeless. The assault, which began on February 25, 2025, has forced residents to flee, clutching their belongings as they escape the chaos. This latest attack underscores the escalating insecurity in Port-au-Prince, where gangs now control significant portions of the city, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

In the afternoon, following a morning of intense violence on Feb. 25, Haitian National Police (PNH) officers in armored tanks advanced further into Delmas 30. Meanwhile, other PNH officers were seen exchanging gunfire with gang members closer to the main road leading into the neighborhood.

The attack on Delmas 30 was days in the making. Rumors about gangs planning to seize the neighborhood had circulated since early February, growing more urgent by the week of February 17. Armed men first attempted to overrun the area on Friday, Feb. 23, sending some residents fleeing while others stayed behind, clinging to the hope that PNH would intervene. But on Tuesday those hopes were shattered as gunfire rang out and flames engulfed homes. 

Parents dragged their children through the streets, dodging bullets and smoke, not knowing where to run. Now, with gangs controlling most of the capital’s neighborhoods, thousands have been forced from their homes, crowding into makeshift shelters or sleeping in the streets.

Here is a display of photos that offer a glimpse into the attack at Delmas 30 on Feb. 25

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