A group of 17 U.S. missionaries including children has been kidnapped by a gang in Haiti, according to a voice message sent to various religious missions by an organization with direct knowledge of the incident.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico -- A group of 17 U.S. missionaries including children was kidnapped by a gang inon Saturday, according to a voice message sent to various religious missions by an organization with direct knowledge of the incident.
The message says the mission's field director is working with the U.S. Embassy, and that the field director's family and one other unidentified man stayed at the ministry's base while everyone else visited the orphanage.A U.S. government spokesperson said they were aware of the reports on the kidnapping.
Gangs have demanded ransoms ranging from a couple hundred dollars to more than $1 million, according to authorities. Gangs have been accused of kidnapping schoolchildren, doctors, police officers, busloads of passengers and others as they grow more powerful. In April, one gang kidnapped five priests and two nuns, a move that prompted a protest similar to the one organized for this Monday to decry the lack of security in the impoverished country.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
US religious group says 17 missionaries kidnapped in HaitiSAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — A group of 17 U.S. missionaries including children were kidnapped in Haiti on Saturday, according to a voice message sent to various religious missions by an organization with direct knowledge of the incident.
Read more »
Up to 17 US Christian missionaries kidnapped in HaitiHaitian officials: 17 American missionaries kidnapped in the country
Read more »
Up to 17 American missionaries reported as kidnapped by gang members in HaitiAs many as 17 American missionaries have been reported kidnapped by gang members in Haiti on Saturday, including 14 adults and three minors, a source in Haiti's security forces told CNN.
Read more »
U.S. missionaries kidnapped in Haiti sent message: 'Please pray for us'The WhatsApp message reportedly read: 'We are being held hostage, they kidnapped our driver. Pray pray pray.'
Read more »
17 Fall Foliage GetawaysWe found destinations from Boston to Yosemite that showcase autumn’s brilliant splendor.
Read more »