Haiti: Kidnappers release two of the 17 abducted missionaries in Port-au-Prince Nov. 21 /update 1

Event

Kidnappers released two of the 17 US and Canadian missionaries who were abducted in mid-October Nov. 21. The religious group with which they were affiliated announced the release, though it said it could not comment on which of the hostages were released, what their nationality is, or why they were let go. The group gave no indication as to whether a ransom was paid and said that the remaining 15 victims remain in captivity.

Context

The threat of kidnapping in Haiti is high, fueled by the presence of heavily armed gangs, the poor economic and security circumstances in the country, in which gangs are attempting to force the resignation of the prime minister. Although kidnappers are most likely to target locals, foreign nationals are also targets. The most common types of kidnapping in Haiti include basic opportunistic kidnap-for-ransom, express kidnapping, and virtual kidnapping. Foreign victims are usually released unharmed and relatively quickly; however, local victims may face the threat of injury or death during confinement. The kidnapping threat is most acute in Port-au-Prince and Cap Haitien.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of vigilance due to the threat of kidnapping in Haiti. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly. If operating in the area in the long term, vary routes and times of travel and ensure the use of secure transport. Maintain regular contact with your diplomatic representation.