Haitian gang kidnaps 17 mostly US missionaries, report says
Former Obama Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Joel Rubin discusses the ‘diplomatic challenge’ the U.S. faces in response.
A Christian missionary group announced that two of its 17 missionaries have been released after being held hostage by a Haitian gang.
Christian Aid Missionaries, which is based in Ohio, made the announcement on Sunday but did not provide further information about the individuals released.
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Christian Aid Ministries in Berlin, Ohio, is seen here on Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021. (AP Photo/Tom E. Puskar)
"We have learned that two of the hostages in Haiti were released. We praise God for this! Only limited information can be provided, but we are able to report that the two hostages who were released are safe, in good spirits and being cared for," the group said in a statement.
A custom sign stands outside Christian Aid Ministries in Titanyen, Haiti, Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021. (AP Photo/Matias Demroix)
Fifteen of the group's missionaries are still being held hostage by the 400 Mawozo gang.
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On Oct. 16, the gang kidnapped 17 members of the group, which includes five children. Sixteen members are U.S. citizens, and one is Canadian. The group's Haitian driver was also kidnapped.
People protest for the release of kidnapped missionaries near the Ohio-based Christian Aid Ministries headquarters in Titanyen, north of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2021. (AP Photo/Joseph Odelyn) (AP)
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"We encourage you to continue to pray for the full resolution of this situation. While we rejoice at this release, our hearts are with the fifteen people who are still being held. Continue to lift up the remaining hostages before the Lord," the group said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
