Radio Television Caraibes Attacked in Haiti

Haitian authorities must swiftly and thoroughly investigate the arson attack on Radio Television Caraibes, a prominent Haitian media outlet, and hold those responsible accountable. On the afternoon of February 23, 2020, a group of masked individuals, armed and claiming to be members of the Haitian National Police, attacked the Radio Television Caraibes offices in Port-au-Prince. They set fire to vehicles, smashed windows, and destroyed broadcasting equipment.

The attack occurred during a protest by Haitian National Police officers demanding better pay and working conditions. During the protest, officers fired weapons into the air and vandalized government property. Radio Television Caraibes’ statement indicated that the attackers claimed to be part of the police protest.

The attack forced the station to cease broadcasting, which had been covering the protests live. Marc Anderson Bregard, the director of programming at Radio Television Caraibes, confirmed that no one was injured during the incident. He also stated that National Police Director Normil Rameau promised an investigation into the attack. Radio Television Caraibes has since resumed broadcasting.

The incident highlights the increasing dangers faced by journalists in Haiti. The possibility of police involvement in this attack raises serious concerns about the government’s ability to protect the press. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called for a thorough investigation to determine if Haitian National Police agents were involved and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. A CPJ representative emphasized the urgent need to address the grave threats journalists face in Haiti, given the already high levels of violence against them. The Port-au-Prince police station confirmed that an investigation has been initiated. This incident follows a pattern of attacks against journalists in Haiti, prompting organizations like CPJ and Reporters Without Borders to urge Haitian authorities to take action to protect the press.