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Irish Missionary Among Eight Abducted in Haiti
Armed kidnappers seized seven adults and a three-year-old child from Saint-Hélène orphanage near Port-au-Prince overnight. The incident occurred in Kenscoff, an area repeatedly targeted by criminal gangs since January. While no group claimed responsibility, authorities believe gangs conducted the abduction for ransom.
Victims Include Longtime Aid Worker
The abducted include Irish missionary Gena Heraty, the orphanage's director who confirmed the kidnapping during a brief phone call Sunday morning. Saint-Hélène orphanage operated by Franco-Mexican aid organization Nos Petits Frères et Sœurs cares for 244 children, including 58 with disabilities. Haitian authorities with UNICEF assistance are relocating remaining children.
History of Violence
Heraty has worked in Haiti since 1993 and survived a 2013 orphanage attack where intruders killed a colleague. "In Haiti, the last place you expect violent death is an orphanage for people with disabilities," she previously told Irish media. Special masses are being held in her Irish hometown for her safe return.
Haiti's Escalating Gang Crisis
Haiti remains paralyzed by gang violence with authorities unable to restore order. A UN-backed international security mission deployed in 2024 has achieved minimal progress despite Kenya leading police forces.
Humanitarian Catastrophe
UN human rights experts describe Haiti's situation as catastrophic, with July 2025 reports noting unprecedented levels of kidnappings and sexual violence. Vast territories including Port-au-Prince neighborhoods remain under gang control with vigilante groups emerging as counterforces.
