Gena Heraty, director of a Haitian orphanage, was abducted alongside others, prompting major international response and highlighting the rampant gang violence in the region.
Irish Missionary Abducted in Haiti: Family's Heartbreak and Urgent Call for Action
Irish Missionary Abducted in Haiti: Family's Heartbreak and Urgent Call for Action
The family of an Irish missionary taken during a kidnapping in Haiti expresses deep concern as efforts for her release intensify.
The family of Gena Heraty, an Irish missionary and director of the Sainte-Hélène orphanage in Kenscoff, Haiti, has shared their profound devastation following her kidnapping. According to reports, Gena was taken early Sunday morning alongside seven staff members and a young child. The orphanage, which provides care for over 250 children, is located near Port-au-Prince, Haiti's capital.
Family members described the situation as "deeply worrying" and emphasized that they are cooperating closely with humanitarian organizations and the Irish government to ensure Gena's safe return. "We are working with Nos Petits Frères et Sœurs (NPFS) both in Haiti and Ireland," the family stated, while requesting privacy to protect Gena's safety.
The incident occurred when armed men allegedly associated with gangs broke into the facility, reportedly using a wall breach to gain access. Mayor Massillon Jean characterized the assault as a "planned act," and authorities are now heavily focused on negotiations for the release of the hostages. Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris has spoken with his Haitian counterpart to advocate for immediate action regarding their safety.
Haitian gangs are increasingly exerting control over areas of Port-au-Prince, with reports indicating that they govern approximately 85% of the city. The escalating violence is a significant contributor to the ongoing humanitarian crisis, as highlighted by UN reports which noted that approximately 350 individuals were kidnapped in just the first half of 2025, and more than 3,000 fatalities occurred in that same period.
Community members describe Gena Heraty as an "inspiring figure" and exemplify her dedication to helping the vulnerable. Tommy Marren, a Midwest Radio presenter from County Mayo, referred to her as "a living saint," underlining the affection and respect she commands within the local community. A parish priest recently urged congregants to pray for Gena's safety as fears persist over her and her colleagues' plight amid ongoing gang violence that has plagued the region for months.
Local journalist Harold Isaac noted that gang control in Port-au-Prince has intensified, emphasizing the urgent need for action to restore stability. "The region around the orphanage has been under constant threat," he remarked, underscoring the precarious nature of ongoing negotiations for Gena’s and the others' release.
As the situation unfolds, the world watches with hope for a peaceful resolution that prioritizes the safety of all involved.
