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The US State Department confirmed on Monday (October 18th) that 16 of the missionaries abducted over the weekend in Haiti were US citizens, CNN reported.
“We have maintained regular contacts with the senior authorities in Haiti and will continue to work with them and interdepartmental partners,” a State Department official said.
Citing a source in Haiti, CNN said the notorious 400 Mawozo gang was behind the abduction of 16 Americans and a Canadian.
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The missionaries were abducted on Saturday (October 16th) during a trip to visit an orphanage, according to a statement issued Sunday (October 17th) by Christian Aid Missionaries. The abductees include five men, seven women and five children.
“Join us in praying for those held hostage, the kidnappers and the families, friends and churches of those affected,” the statement said. “Pray for those who seek God’s guidance and make decisions on this issue.”
According to CNN, the kidnappers contacted the missionary organization. There were no details of ransom negotiations.
400 Mawozo typically demand a ransom of about $ 20,000, CNN reported, citing data from the Haiti-based nonprofit human rights analysis and research center.
The gang’s abductions have risen by nearly 300 percent since July, with the most likely target being Haitians. 400 Mawozo, once a car theft specialist, is a pioneer in mass kidnappings in the Caribbean.
RELATED: Haiti Crisis: White House Deputy Spokeswoman Karin Jean-Pierre Outlines US Aid Efforts
CBS News reported that senior US officials met with their Haitian counterparts in Haiti days before the abduction. They promised Haitian National Police resources, which include $ 15 million, to help reduce the gang’s activities.
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