A new report by Human Rights Watch has revealed that hundreds of people have been killed in drone strikes in Haiti, including at least 60 civilians, raising serious concerns about the use of explosive drones in densely populated areas and the protection of innocent lives.
According to the report, more than 1,200 people were killed and over 700 injured in drone strikes carried out between March 2025 and January 2026 as authorities intensified operations against heavily armed gangs. The strikes were mainly conducted in and around the capital, Port‑au‑Prince, where criminal groups have gained significant control over neighborhoods and key infrastructure.
Human Rights Watch stated that at least 60 civilians — including women and children — were among those killed during these operations. The organization warned that the use of explosive drones in crowded urban environments significantly increases the risk to civilians and may violate international human rights standards if proper precautions are not taken.
The report indicates that the Haitian government and security forces began relying more heavily on drone technology as gang violence escalated and traditional law enforcement operations struggled to regain control of affected areas. Armed gangs in Port-au-Prince have been responsible for kidnappings, killings, and the displacement of thousands of residents, creating one of the most severe security crises in the country’s recent history.
However, Human Rights Watch emphasized that counter-gang operations must still comply with international law and protect civilian populations. The organization expressed concern that some strikes may have been carried out without sufficient safeguards to prevent harm to innocent people.
Investigators also pointed to the involvement of a U.S.-based private security firm, Vectus Global, which reportedly provided technical and operational support related to the drone program. The report calls on international partners to ensure that any assistance provided to Haitian authorities includes strict oversight and clear rules to minimize civilian casualties.
Human Rights Watch urged Haitian authorities to conduct transparent investigations into incidents where civilians were killed and to hold those responsible accountable if violations occurred. The organization also called for improved monitoring of drone operations and stronger protections for communities living in gang-controlled areas.
The situation in Haiti remains extremely fragile, with large parts of Port-au-Prince still under the influence of powerful criminal networks. While security forces argue that advanced technology such as drones is necessary to confront well-armed gangs, human rights advocates warn that the growing use of such weapons risks further endangering civilians already caught in the country’s deepening crisis.
Human Rights Watch concluded that restoring security in Haiti must not come at the cost of civilian lives and urged both Haitian authorities and international partners to prioritize accountability, transparency, and the protection of human rights.
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