The assault occurred around 3:30 PM local time, with attackers breaching a wall to enter the orphanage, which houses over 240 children, some with disabilities. Local authorities described the act as premeditated and involving gang members. Despite being in the custody of kidnappers, Heraty managed to confirm her status to the organization overseeing the orphanage, Our Little Brothers and Sisters, earlier on Sunday.
As of now, no ransom demands have been issued, and Ireland's foreign affairs department is assisting affected families. Gena Heraty, hailing from County Mayo, has dedicated her life to humanitarian work in Haiti since 1993, earning multiple accolades for her efforts. She has publicly stated her commitment to remaining in Haiti to support the children, regardless of the escalating violence.
The commune of Kenscoff, where the kidnapping took place, has been plagued by rampant gang activities, which have taken over vast areas of Port-au-Prince. Law enforcement and foreign allies have struggled to reclaim control from criminal groups. The United Nations reports that armed factions dominate about 85% of the capital, endangering the local population. Previous kidnappings of aid workers, including six UNICEF members, showcase the growing crisis.
In the first half of 2025 alone, nearly 350 kidnappings occurred, alongside over 3,100 homicides as the country spirals into chaos. UN officials warn that this spike in violence is creating a humanitarian disaster, with 1.3 million people displaced and living in precarious conditions.
As the situation in Haiti deteriorates, the need for humanitarian support and safety for vulnerable populations remains a pressing concern.
As of now, no ransom demands have been issued, and Ireland's foreign affairs department is assisting affected families. Gena Heraty, hailing from County Mayo, has dedicated her life to humanitarian work in Haiti since 1993, earning multiple accolades for her efforts. She has publicly stated her commitment to remaining in Haiti to support the children, regardless of the escalating violence.
The commune of Kenscoff, where the kidnapping took place, has been plagued by rampant gang activities, which have taken over vast areas of Port-au-Prince. Law enforcement and foreign allies have struggled to reclaim control from criminal groups. The United Nations reports that armed factions dominate about 85% of the capital, endangering the local population. Previous kidnappings of aid workers, including six UNICEF members, showcase the growing crisis.
In the first half of 2025 alone, nearly 350 kidnappings occurred, alongside over 3,100 homicides as the country spirals into chaos. UN officials warn that this spike in violence is creating a humanitarian disaster, with 1.3 million people displaced and living in precarious conditions.
As the situation in Haiti deteriorates, the need for humanitarian support and safety for vulnerable populations remains a pressing concern.
