Irish Missionary's Family Heartbroken Over Kidnapping in Haiti

The family of the kidnapped Irish missionary is seeking the safe return of her and eight others taken by gang members from the Sainte-Hélène orphanage near Port-au-Prince, escalating fears of violence in the region.

The family of Gena Heraty, a prominent Irish missionary, has expressed profound sadness and concern following her recent kidnapping at the Sainte-Hélène orphanage in Kenscoff, Haiti. Ms. Heraty, a dedicated humanitarian worker, was among those abducted in the early hours of Sunday, including seven staff members and a child. Local mayor Massillon Jean confirmed the incident, marking a significant escalation in gang-related violence in the area.

The abduction took place at approximately 15:30 local time, with the intruders executing a planned attack by breaching a wall to gain access to the orphanage, which houses over 250 vulnerable children. The Irish government has initiated urgent dialogue to secure the release of those involved.

Originating from Westport, County Mayo, Gena Heraty oversees the facility under the humanitarian organization Nos Petits Frères et Sœurs (NPFS). Her family has described the situation as "deeply worrying," pledging to work closely with NPFS, the Irish government, and international partners to ensure her safe return. Due to the sensitive nature of the situation, they have refrained from sharing additional details.

Irish Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister) Simon Harris has engaged in discussions with his Haitian counterpart to stress the importance of a swift resolution. He urged the Haitian authorities to exhaust all avenues for the hostages' release. Gang violence is rampant in Port-au-Prince, where armed factions reportedly control approximately 85% of the city, raising serious concerns over public safety. Recent UN statistics reveal that nearly 350 individuals were kidnapped in Haiti in the first half of 2024, underscoring the pervasive threat posed by organized gangs.

Community figures, including Tommy Marren, who knows Ms. Heraty, have rallied support for her return, emphasizing her commitment to the underprivileged. Parishioners in her hometown are currently gathering for prayers, highlighting the deep ties she has forged within the community.

As negotiations continue and the situation remains tense, experts caution that the ongoing gang crisis in Port-au-Prince underscores the increasing peril faced by humanitarian workers and local residents alike.