Gang Releases 13 Hostages, Including Six Children, in Haiti
A gang in Haiti released 13 hostages, including six children and seven women, who were part of a larger group kidnapped during a deadly attack on the community of Kenscoff near Port-au-Prince nearly a week prior, according to UNICEF.
Fort Myers Naples, FL, August 29, 2026 — A group of 13 hostages, comprising six children and seven women, has been released by a gang in Haiti, according to information provided by UNICEF. The individuals were part of a larger group abducted nearly a week before their release during a deadly attack on the community of Kenscoff, situated near the capital city of Port-au-Prince.
The circumstances surrounding the initial kidnapping and the subsequent release remain under close observation. The abduction occurred in Kenscoff, a community that experienced a fatal attack prior to the hostage-taking. Details regarding the total number of individuals initially kidnapped in the Kenscoff incident have not been fully specified, beyond the group from which these 13 individuals were released.
UNICEF, the United Nations agency for children, confirmed the release of the hostages. The agency’s statement highlights the vulnerability of children in such conflict situations. The fate of any other individuals who may have been part of the larger group taken during the attack on Kenscoff was not immediately clear.
The situation in Haiti, particularly around Port-au-Prince, has been marked by escalating gang violence, leading to widespread insecurity, kidnappings for ransom, and loss of life. The Kenscoff incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by residents and aid organizations in providing safety and support.
The specific gang responsible for the kidnapping and release was not identified in the provided information. Similarly, details regarding the timeline of the release or any conditions attached to it were not disclosed. The number of individuals still considered missing from the initial attack, if any, is also not specified. Investigations into the attack and the hostage situation are ongoing, with authorities working to restore order and provide assistance to affected communities.
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