Kamikaze drone operations: the RNDDH demands protection for the civilian population
Summary: On 20 September 2025 two kamikaze drones were dropped by the security forces on a gang leader's birthday celebration at Simon Pelé. Children taking part in the festivities were among the casualties, which is what led the network to investigate.
Key Findings
- Two kamikaze drones were dropped by the security forces at Simon Pelé on 20 September 2025.
- The drop hit a gang leader's birthday celebration and children taking part were among the casualties.
- The report treats the use of the weapon in a densely populated neighbourhood.
- The network demands protection for the civilian population in such operations.
Full Description
On 20 September 2025, during the celebration of the birthday of a named gang leader at Simon Pelé, two kamikaze drones were dropped by the security forces. Many people were hurt, and children who were taking part in the festivities were among them, which is what drew the network's attention and led to this report. Its subject is the operation. It asks what it means for the state to use this weapon in a densely populated neighbourhood, and what protection the civilian population is owed when it does.
How to cite
National Human Rights Defense Network (RNDDH), 2025, Kamikaze drone operations: the RNDDH demands protection for the civilian population, https://web.rnddh.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/9-RapM-Simon-Pele-22Oct2025.FR_.pdf
- Rights holder
- Réseau National de Défense des Droits Humains (RNDDH)