Story perspectives

Kidnapped Haitian Defense Official Highlights 267 UN Kidnappings

6/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

James Boyard, a senior Haitian defense official, was kidnapped Thursday in Bourdon, Port-au-Prince.
Authorities have not confirmed his whereabouts and suspect insiders compromised his security detail.
Violent gangs control about 70% of Port-au-Prince.
The Viv Ansanm coalition was designated a foreign terrorist organization by the United States in May 2025.
A United Nations report recorded 267 kidnappings from December 2025 to February 2026, while kidnappings fell 40% in 2025 versus 2024.

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Story summary

James Boyard, a senior Haitian defense official, was kidnapped Thursday in Bourdon, Port-au-Prince.
Authorities have not confirmed his whereabouts and suspect insiders compromised his security detail.
Violent gangs control about 70% of Port-au-Prince.
The Viv Ansanm coalition was designated a foreign terrorist organization by the United States in May 2025.
A United Nations report recorded 267 kidnappings from December 2025 to February 2026, while kidnappings fell 40% in 2025 versus 2024.