Arson Attack on Radio Télévision Caraïbes in Haiti

Haitian authorities must conduct a swift and thorough investigation into the February 23, 2020, arson attack on Radio Télévision Caraïbes, a prominent Haitian media outlet. Masked individuals, claiming to be police officers, set fire to vehicles, smashed windows, and destroyed broadcasting equipment at the Port-au-Prince station.

The attack coincided with a protest by Haitian National Police officers demanding improved pay and working conditions. During the protest, officers fired weapons and vandalized property. Radio Télévision Caraïbes reported that the attackers claimed to be part of the police protest.

The attack briefly interrupted the station’s live coverage of the protests. Marc Anderson Bregard, the station’s programming director, confirmed that no injuries were reported. National Police Director Normil Rameau promised an investigation. Broadcasting has since resumed.

This incident underscores the growing dangers faced by journalists in Haiti. The possible involvement of police raises serious concerns about press freedom and government protection of journalists. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called for a thorough investigation to determine police involvement and bring the perpetrators to justice, emphasizing the urgent need to address the threats against journalists in Haiti. The Port-au-Prince police have confirmed an investigation is underway. This attack follows a pattern of violence against journalists, prompting organizations like CPJ and Reporters Without Borders to urge Haitian authorities to protect the press.