All 17 kidnapped missionaries in Haiti released

A ministry says their prayers have been answered; all 17 missionaries who were kidnapped in Haiti two months ago are free.

On October 16, 17 missionaries with Christian Aid Ministries were visiting an orphanage in Haiti when they were kidnapped. The five children and 12 adults were taken from the Croix-des-Bouquets suburb.

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At the time, a gang demanded $17 million for their return, $1 million for each person. 

Exactly two months later, on Thursday morning, The New York Times says 12 missionaries were found alive and free near Port-au-Prince. The five other hostages had been previously released.

All 17 missionaries, including the one Canadian, are free.

"We glorify God for answered prayer—the remaining twelve hostages are FREE," Christian Aid Ministries says in a statement on their website. "Join us in praising God that all seventeen of our loved ones are now safe. Thank you for your fervent prayers throughout the past two months. We hope to provide more information as we are able."

Christian Aid Ministries points to Exodus 15:1, writing “I will sing unto the Lord, for he hath triumphed gloriously."

The 400 Mawozo gang, who kidnapped the group, is known for kidnapping religious leaders, including nuns and priests. The 17 kidnapped missionaries are Anabaptists. It is unclear if the ransom was paid.

This is an ongoing story and will be updated. We have reached out to Christian Aid Ministries and Police National d’Haïti.