The armed attack on the Kenscoff neighborhood began last month, with the death toll expected to rise as gangs wreak havoc on the area.

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Heavily armed gangs in Haiti have attacked a neighborhood that's home to most of the country's elite and had been largely untouched by criminals, and police have demanded help repelling the assault that has killed at least 40 people.

Kenscoff has been under attack for over a week now. The mayor said the area is surrounded and called for reinforcements

Security forces kill 20 gang members, reinforcements sent to region, says Haiti National Police - Anadolu Ajansı

The police reported that several gang members attempting to take control of Kenscoff were killed in a shootout after specialized units were sent in as reinforcements to thwart their plans.