In Haiti, gangs attack journalists covering the opening of a hospital

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Suspected gang members opened fire on journalists in Haiti’s capital Tuesday as they covered an effort to rebuild the country’s largest hospital, according to a local radio station.

Radio Télé Métronome reported that seven journalists and two police officers were injured. The police did not immediately respond to calls.

Street gangs have taken over most of Port-au-Prince. They forced the closure of a general hospital earlier this year amid violence that also targeted the main international airport and Haiti’s two largest prisons.

Authorities promised to reopen the facility on Tuesday. But when reporters gathered to cover the event, alleged gang members opened fire. A video posted online showed reporters inside the building and at least three lying on the floor, apparently injured. The video could not be checked immediately.

Johnson “Izo” Andre, a local gang leader and member of the gang coalition known as Viv Ansanm, which has taken control of much of Port-au-Prince, posted a video on social media claiming responsibility for the attack.

The video says that the bandit coalition did not allow the hospital to reopen.

Former Prime Minister Harry Conil visited the State University of Haiti hospital, better known as the General Hospital, in July after authorities regained control of it from gangs.

The hospital was destroyed and filled with debris. Walls and nearby buildings were riddled with bullet holes, signaling clashes between police and gangs. The hospital is located across the street from the national palace, where several battles have taken place in recent months.

Haiti’s health care system is on the verge of collapse. Gangs rob, burn and destroy medical facilities and pharmacies in the capital.

The health system faces additional challenges due to the rainy season, which can worsen conditions and increase the risk of water-borne diseases. Poor sanitary conditions in camps and temporary settlements increased the risk of diseases such as cholera.