On October 16, 2021, a US couple was kidnapped in Haiti while on a mission trip. The couple, identified as James and Arlene Mulholland, were taken from their home in the capital city of Port-au-Prince by a group of armed men. The kidnappers have demanded a ransom of $17 million for their release.
The Mulhollands have been living in Haiti for over 30 years and have dedicated their lives to serving the people of the country. They run an orphanage and a school, and are well-known and respected in the community. Their kidnapping has shocked and saddened many, both in Haiti and in the United States.
The US government has condemned the kidnapping and is working with Haitian authorities to secure the couple’s safe release. The State Department has issued a travel advisory for Haiti, warning US citizens to avoid travel to the country due to the high risk of kidnapping and violent crime.
The Mulholland family has appealed for the safe release of James and Arlene, asking for prayers and support from the community. They have also set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds for the ransom and for the couple’s medical expenses, as James has a pre-existing medical condition that requires regular treatment.
Kidnapping for ransom has become a common occurrence in Haiti, with many foreigners and wealthy Haitians targeted by criminal gangs. The country has been plagued by political instability, economic hardship, and natural disasters in recent years, which has contributed to the rise in crime.
The kidnapping of the Mulhollands highlights the dangers faced by those who choose to live and work in Haiti. Despite the risks, many people like the Mulhollands continue to dedicate their lives to helping others in the country. Their kidnapping is a reminder of the importance of supporting those who are working to make a difference in Haiti, and of the need for increased security measures to protect them.
As the Mulholland family and the Haitian authorities work to secure the couple’s safe release, the world watches and waits, hoping for a positive outcome. The kidnapping has brought attention to the ongoing crisis in Haiti and the need for international support to address the root causes of the country’s problems.
