Gena Heraty: 'Please release her' – charity appeals to kidnappers

Gena Heraty: 'Please release her' – charity appeals to kidnappers

Gena Heraty, an Irish missionary employed by a charity, has been taken in Haiti, leading to an urgent appeal for her release. Hugh Brennan, a trustee of NPH Ireland, hailed Heraty as an “inspirational”, “resilient”, and “tough person” known for her poetry writing. Originally from Westport in County Mayo, Heraty serves as the director of an orphanage in Haiti and was one of several individuals abducted in Kenscoff, near the country’s capital, as reported by mayor Massillon Jean.

The orphanage overseen by Heraty operates under the humanitarian organization Nos Petits Frères Et Soeurs (Our Little Brothers And Sisters) in the commune of Kenscoff, located approximately 10km southeast of Port-au-Prince. The attackers executed a planned break-in without the use of firearms, breached a wall to intrude the property, and made their way to the building where Heraty resided, according to Mayor Jean. The incident occurred at around 15:30 local time on a Sunday morning.

Discussing the situation, Mr. Brennan emphasized the dangers known to Heraty due to her prolonged presence in the area, referring to her as “Madam Gena”. He highlighted the challenging circumstances faced by vulnerable groups in Haiti and praised Heraty’s commitment to supporting these individuals. Gang members are suspected to be behind the attack, indicative of the prevalent gang violence and kidnapping occurrences in and around Port-au-Prince, where armed groups reportedly hold significant control.

Kathleen Davey, with family members residing in Haiti, recalled the kidnapping of two of her cousins by gangs, shedding light on the turmoil and instability plaguing the country. Expressing dismay over the drastic transformation in Haiti’s societal landscape, she lamented the loss of the Haiti she once knew. Despite the prevailing sense of fear among her relatives, Davey emphasized the need for resilience and a continued sense of hope. Journalist Harold Isaac alluded to the strategic significance of NPH’s involvement, citing their longstanding presence in Haiti and emphasizing the ongoing efforts to secure a positive resolution amid the politically tense atmosphere in the country

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