"The situation has worsened since the attack on Sunday, June 30. The criminals took control of 75% of the town of Gressier. Around 23,000 people had to flee to Colline 3, 4, to customs offices, in Brâche, and to Léogâne. Among these displaced persons are those from Merger and all those who had settled in Gressier after fleeing Mariani," Mayor Jean Vladimir Bertrand confided to Le Nouvelliste on Monday, July 8, 2024.

"The criminals, numerous and mobile, did not only consolidate their positions but are expanding," he continued with a mix of dismay and helplessness in his voice. "They vacated the police station premises and established themselves about a mile and a half away, in Santo," the mayor informed, confirming the burning of the Civil Protection office in Gressier.