The US State Department confirmed on Monday (October 18) that 16 of the missionaries abducted over the weekend in Haiti were US citizens, CNN report.
“We have been in regular contact with the senior Haitian authorities and will continue to work with them and our interagency partners,” a State Department official said.
Citing a source in Haiti, CNN said the notorious “400 Mawozo” gang was behind the kidnapping of 16 Americans and one Canadian.
The missionaries were kidnapped Saturday (October 16) while visiting an orphanage, according to a statement posted on Sunday (October 17) from Christian Aid Missionaries. The abductees included 5 men, 7 women and 5 children.
“Please join us in praying for those being held hostage, the kidnappers, and the families, friends and churches of those affected,” the statement read. “Pray for those who are seeking God’s guidance and making decisions regarding this matter.”
According to CNN, the kidnappers contacted the mission. There are no details on any ransom negotiations.
CNN reported that 400 Mawozo typically demanded about $20,000 in ransom, citing data from the Haiti-based Center for Human Rights Research and Analysis.
Kidnappings by the gang have increased by nearly 300% since July, with Haitians being the most likely target. 400 Mawozo, a former car thief, has pioneered mass kidnappings in the Caribbean nation.
CBS News reported that senior U.S. officials had met with their Haitian counterparts in Haiti a few days before the abduction. They promised to provide resources to the Haitian National Police, including $15 million to help reduce gang activities.
