Missouri Rep. Ben Baker (R-Missouri) announced Thursday that his daughter and son-in-law, who were serving as missionaries in Haiti, were killed in a recent gang attack as the crisis in the country continues to spiral out of control.
“My heart is broken into a thousand pieces. I have never felt such pain before. As many of you know my daughter and son-in-law, Davey and Natalie Lloyd, are missionaries in Haiti. They were attacked this evening by a gang and they were both killed. They have both gone to heaven,” Baker said. I have written On facebook.
“Please pray for my family. We desperately need strength. And please pray for Lloyd’s family. There’s nothing else to say at this time,” he added.
“Kidnappings are widespread and victims frequently include U.S. citizens.”
Haiti has long been unstable, especially since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, but unrest reached new heights earlier this year when gangs staged a major attack on Port-au-Prince’s prison and airport. The attack was orchestrated to force the resignation of Ariel Henry, who was abroad trying to secure a security agreement with Kenya to send police to combat gangs.
Henry resigned days after it became clear he would not be able to return to Haiti and maintain some form of governance.
Reuters report Private contractors are being sent to Haiti to build a base at Toussaint Louverture International Airport to be used by Kenyan security forces, and about 1,000 police officers will be sent to help Haiti’s beleaguered National Police.
“This mission was made possible thanks to our ongoing coordination and support with Haitian stakeholders who are committed to maintaining the airport and keeping it operational. The United States will continue to provide strong, multifaceted support to Haiti as it moves toward a safer, more prosperous future.” Said US Southern Command.
U.S. Department of State issued In July 2023, a travel ban was issued for Haiti due to kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and inadequate medical infrastructure. Non-essential staff were evacuated from the embassy.
“Kidnappings are widespread and victims frequently include U.S. citizens. Kidnappers may develop sophisticated plans, take advantage of unexpected opportunities, or even be attacked in convoys. Kidnappings often involve ransom negotiations, and U.S. victims suffer physical harm during the abduction. Victims’ families have paid thousands of dollars to rescue their loved ones,” the alert explains.
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