Gangs Storm Mirebalais, Release 500 Inmates Amid Violence

Heavily armed gangs stormed the town of Mirebalais in central Haiti, leading to a violent prison break where approximately 500 inmates were released. The gangs, identified as 400 Mawozo and the Taliban, attacked the local police station and set fire to buildings, prompting residents to flee amid gunfire. Local authorities have since regained control of Mirebalais, but many escaped inmates remain at large, raising concerns about security in the region. The attack highlights the escalating gang violence in Haiti, where armed groups have increasingly targeted areas beyond the capital, Port-au-Prince. A recent report indicated that over 5,600 people were killed due to gang violence in Haiti last year, underlining the ongoing crisis. The Multinational Security Support Mission is attempting to aid local law enforcement, but progress remains limited as violence continues to surge.