Images shared on social networks showed the bodies of the alleged gang members, including five women.

The Police recovered firearms, including an assault rifle, and freed several hostages, in addition to burning houses used by the gang, the Government Commissioner of the town of Côteaux, Wadson Azor, reported to the press.

Media outlets reported in recent months an increase in violence in the area and denounced the recent murder of a young businessman, who was executed despite the payment of a ransom by family members.

Insecurity in Haiti continues to rise despite the increase in police operations, particularly in Port-au-Prince and the Artibonite department.

Over three thousand people lost their lives this year, according to United Nations reports, and thousands more were victims of kidnapping.

Criminal gangs currently control over three quarters of the capital, and their influence is beginning to extend to the northern and southern regions of Haiti.

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