Haitians Set Police, Gov’t Vehicles On Fire

HAITI – Tensions escalated in the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince on Monday, as thousands of protesters took to the streets to speak out against the country’s devastating gang violence, which resulted last week in the death of a police officer.

Government vehicles were set on fire, as protesters – many masked – squared off against police, demanding protection and aid.

The United Nations Refugee Agency says some 73,500 people fled Haiti last year in light of growing gang violence and poverty.

The UN also says 5.2 million – nearly half Haiti’s population – need humanitarian assistance, and has urged the need for international assistance in Haiti to restore stability.