Gena Heraty, the director of the Sainte-Hélène orphanage in Kenscoff, Haiti, has been reported kidnapped along with seven staff members and a child. Her family has expressed feeling "absolutely devastated" as they seek information on her whereabouts following the early Sunday morning incident. Local authorities, including Mayor Massillon Jean, described the break-in as a planned attack and suggested gang involvement.
Heraty, originally from County Mayo, has been a dedicated figure in the humanitarian organization Nos Petits Frères et Sœurs (NPFS), which cares for over 250 children. Following the kidnapping, there are extensive efforts underway involving both the Irish government and international partners for their release.
In a poignant statement, Heraty's relatives emphasized their collaboration with NPFS and the Irish government to expedite her return while maintaining respect for the delicate situation. Irish Tánaiste Simon Harris has engaged in discussions with his Haitian counterpart regarding the abduction, stressing the need for collective action to ensure the hostages' safety.
Haiti is currently experiencing extreme gang violence, with such criminal groups controlling approximately 85% of Port-au-Prince. Recent reports indicate a troubling rise in kidnappings and violence, with the UN citing almost 350 kidnappings in just the first half of 2025.
Friends and associates have expressed their sorrow and admiration for Heraty, referring to her as a "living saint" for her selfless devotion to helping vulnerable children. In the face of escalating violence, there is an urgent call for prayers and hopes for a positive resolution.
As communication regarding the negotiation efforts unfolds, experts say that the situation remains precarious, fueled by the pervasive influence of gangs in the region. Local journalists report ongoing negotiations aimed at securing the release of Heraty and the others taken hostage.
Heraty, originally from County Mayo, has been a dedicated figure in the humanitarian organization Nos Petits Frères et Sœurs (NPFS), which cares for over 250 children. Following the kidnapping, there are extensive efforts underway involving both the Irish government and international partners for their release.
In a poignant statement, Heraty's relatives emphasized their collaboration with NPFS and the Irish government to expedite her return while maintaining respect for the delicate situation. Irish Tánaiste Simon Harris has engaged in discussions with his Haitian counterpart regarding the abduction, stressing the need for collective action to ensure the hostages' safety.
Haiti is currently experiencing extreme gang violence, with such criminal groups controlling approximately 85% of Port-au-Prince. Recent reports indicate a troubling rise in kidnappings and violence, with the UN citing almost 350 kidnappings in just the first half of 2025.
Friends and associates have expressed their sorrow and admiration for Heraty, referring to her as a "living saint" for her selfless devotion to helping vulnerable children. In the face of escalating violence, there is an urgent call for prayers and hopes for a positive resolution.
As communication regarding the negotiation efforts unfolds, experts say that the situation remains precarious, fueled by the pervasive influence of gangs in the region. Local journalists report ongoing negotiations aimed at securing the release of Heraty and the others taken hostage.
