Haitian gang frees women and children after large-scale kidnapping and deadly raid

In the wake of a deadly assault on the hills-top community of Kenscoff near Haiti’s capital, a gang that had seized over 50 people released six children and seven women, according to UNICEF. Among those freed are three children under two years old, a seven-year-old and two teenage girls. The attack on Kenscoff resulted in at least 47 deaths and prompted the gang leader identified as Izo 2 to threaten execution of all hostages if police engaged his forces.

Izo 2 operates in the area in concert with other prominent gang leaders, including one known simply as Izo. UNICEF’s deputy representative in Haiti, Yannig Dussart, described the release as a rare hopeful moment amid widespread violence targeting children. The agency collaborated with community leaders to negotiate the freedom of the women and children, but it has not confirmed whether they require medical attention or if more victims remain captive.