In Saint-Marc, Haiti, a palpable mix of admiration and outrage surged through the crowds as hundreds of protesters seized the local city hall. Their demand was urgent: protection from the escalating gang violence that has wreaked havoc across their community. This takeover comes in the shadow of violent attacks over the weekend, leading to the heartbreaking deaths of men, women, and children, and the destruction of homes.

Activists like Chalesma Jean Marcos voiced their frustration, expressing a collective disbelief that local authorities ignored ample warnings about the rising threats. “Since Monday, there has been an alert regarding Pont-Sonde,” Marcos stated, highlighting the imminent danger posed by gangs that are reportedly planning to expand their territory into Saint-Marc. “We’ve conducted all necessary awareness campaigns with everyone involved,yet here we are.” This sentiment resonates with many, who feel a mix of admiration for the activists’ courage and outrage at the lack of government responsiveness.

Meanwhile, police authorities are calling for emergency backup, indicating that half of the central Artibonite region has seemingly fallen under gang control after recent assaults on Bercy and Pont-Sondé. Yet, apathy lingers as much of the police force remains stationed in Port-au-Prince, grappling with gang violence there, while the situation in Saint-Marc intensifies. Citizens express a sense of helplessness, pointing out how the presence of Kenyan officers, part of a UN-backed mission, has done little to curb violence in their own neighborhoods.

The ongoing crisis has drawn attention, though the response from Haiti’s National Police has been notably absent, leading to further frustration among the people. The Gran Grif gang, identified as the main perpetrator of the recent attacks, has become synonymous with brutality in the area. This gang's notoriety is compounded by its leader, Luckson Elan, who has been sanctioned by both the United Nations Security Council and the US government. This raises the question of accountability, stirring both outrage and disbelief among citizens who wonder how such a group continues to operate freely.

Statistics shared by the United Nations paint a grim picture: 1,303 killings reported in the Artibonite and Centre departments from January to August this year, a staggering increase from the previous year. Many residents feel a sense of apathy creeping in, as they grapple with the reality of living in a region where gang violence has become a part of daily life. “These assaults underscore the capacity of gangs to consolidate control,” the UN report states, yet for many, the words feel hollow against the backdrop of their lived experiences.

As the protests in Saint-Marc demonstrate, the call for safety and security is no longer just a demand; it has become a desperate plea from communities caught in the crossfire. While admiration for the protesters' bravery is widespread, outrage at governmental inaction persists, leaving citizens to wonder when their cries for help will be met with meaningful action.