Nine Kidnapped From Haiti Orphanage in Kenscoff

Nine people, including Irish missionary Gena Heraty, a three-year-old child, and several staff members, were kidnapped early Sunday from the Sainte-Hélène orphanage in Kenscoff, near Port-au-Prince, Haiti, after assailants believed to be linked to the 'Viv Ansanm' gang coalition broke through a wall in a planned attack. The orphanage, operated by the international charity Nos Petits Frères et Sœurs, cares for up to 270 children, many with disabilities. Authorities have relocated dozens of children and staff for safety, and no ransom demands have been made. The kidnapping highlights escalating gang lawlessness in Haiti, which has seen a surge in kidnappings and violence, with the United Nations reporting thousands killed and over a million displaced in recent years. Ireland’s government has expressed deep concern and is providing consular assistance. International organizations are calling for the immediate release of the hostages.