Since 2019, a large part of L’Estère, a commune in the Artibonite department, has been controlled by the criminal gang “Kokorat San Ras.” The situation worsened in mid-October 2025 when a series of attacks were launched on several localities, resulting in loss of life and the massive displacement of the population toward less-exposed communes. As of now, out of the 54 localities that make up the commune, 52 are under the control of criminals, according to the testimony of journalist and agricultural technician Valdo Jean, who spoke on Wednesday, November 5, during the Panel Magik program on Magik 9 radio.

Since this most recent wave of attacks, the bandits have been systematically destroying the commune’s agricultural infrastructure and harvests. A few weeks ago, images circulating on social media showed gang leaders destroying large tracts of farmland — particularly rice fields — using machetes or setting them on fire. But their actions do not stop there. The destruction of warehouses and other facilities has now become the new specialty of these gangs.