Two out of 17 abducted US missionaries safely freed by Haitian gang

Two among the 17 US and Canadian missionaries who were abducted by the Haitian gang has been now released safely. However, the identities of the freed have not been revealed yet.  

Ohio-based Christian Aid Ministries stated in their statement, “We have learned that two of the hostages in Haiti were released. While we rejoice at this release, our hearts are with the 15 people who are still being held”. 

No additional information has been – provided by the organisations, but they added that the ones who have been released were “in good spirits and being cared for“. 

The US missionaries were abducted on October 16, 2021, by 400 Mawozo gangs after they visited an orphanage. 

After which, the leader of the Haitian gang demanded a ransom amount of US $17 million and threatened to kill the – hostages if the ransom amount and their wishes are not met. The abducted group also include children. 

The group also did not share if the ransom amount had been paid for the released hostages or not. 

The previous month, the United States government has urged its citizens residing in Haiti to leave the Caribbean island as it witnessed deepening insecurity and gang violence is rising rapidly in the nation.  

The US State Department, while giving warning to its citizens, cited, “Widespread fuel shortages might limit the essential services in an emergency, including access to – banks, money transfers, urgent medical care, internet & telecommunications, and public and private transportation options”. 

The gangs in Haiti also blocked the fuel terminals, which led to a fuel shortage in the country leading the hospitals, schools, and offices to run out of fuel, putting the lives of hundreds of patients at risk, including COVID-19 patients, pregnant women and children. Although, the gangs have temporarily lifted blocks from fuel terminals.