Armed clashes broke out in Seguin early on the morning of Monday, April 20, 2026, according to Lionel Lazarre, former police spokesperson and a native of the Southeast, speaking on Magik9 radio.
Citing information from local residents, Lazarre said law enforcement forces were resisting armed groups attempting to take control of the area. He also noted that, following discussions with departmental police authorities, measures had been taken to strengthen the security response.
According to Lazarre, the attackers reportedly received reinforcements from Kenscoff. The ongoing clashes have already triggered population displacement to other communes, and several homes have been set on fire, according to local sources.
This new wave of violence comes amid an already tense situation. On the night of April 13–14, 2026, an armed attack on Seguin left eight people dead and two police officers slightly injured. During that attack, two vehicles of the Haitian National Police (PNH) and the Seguin substation were burned.
The eight victims were members of a self-defense brigade, according to Marigot mayor René Danneau. Days earlier, on April 12, another armed incursion had already killed five residents.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, the PNH announced on April 15 the deployment of officers from the Anti-Gang Tactical Unit (UTAG) to reinforce units already on the ground. Meanwhile, divisional commissioner Villette Appolos was appointed head of the departmental police, replacing Magalie Belneau.
In Jacmel, the department’s capital, protests took place between April 16 and 17 demanding improved security.
During his remarks, Lazarre called for stronger coordination between the Ministry of Defense and the PNH high command to deploy around 50 soldiers in support of ongoing operations.
“We must prevent Seguin from falling if we want to stop other areas of the Southeast from coming under gang control,” he warned.
