Haiti’s government says securing the release of four Salvadoran personnel reportedly kidnapped by armed gangs is a top priority, as authorities coordinate rescue efforts with the international Gang Suppression Force.
The four men, described as aviation technicians assigned to the international security mission in Haiti, reportedly went missing on Sunday, October 18, 2026, following an armed attack in the Santo area of Croix-des-Bouquets, northeast of Port-au-Prince.
The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of international personnel working alongside Haitian authorities to combat gang violence.
Salvadoran Personnel Reportedly Disappeared After Armed Attack
According to accounts of the incident, the four Salvadoran personnel were traveling toward their base in an armored vehicle when armed attackers opened fire and used explosives.
The vehicle reportedly caught fire during the attack.
The men were said to have escaped the burning vehicle, but communication with them was lost as fighting continued in the area.
The circumstances of their disappearance and their exact location have not been independently established.
The attack comes as Haiti continues to face a serious security crisis, with armed gangs operating across parts of the capital and surrounding communities.
Haitian Government Orders Full Mobilization
In a statement attributed to the Prime Minister’s Office, the Haitian government said a high-level security meeting had been held to review the situation and determine the next steps.
The meeting reportedly brought together senior security officials to assess operations and strengthen coordination with the Gang Suppression Force, also referred to by its French abbreviation, FRG.
The government described the release of the missing personnel as an urgent priority and said all necessary resources were being mobilized.
Authorities also emphasized the importance of protecting civilians as security operations continue.
El Salvador’s President Responds
El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele has reportedly addressed the incident, saying that Haitian gangs are holding the four men.
According to the account provided, Bukele said efforts were underway to secure their release without harm and warned of a stronger response if they were not freed.
Details of any Salvadoran military operation inside Haiti, including its authorization, scope and coordination with Haitian authorities, require independent confirmation.
A Serious Test for Haiti’s International Security Mission
The reported incident comes at a critical time for Haiti’s security operations.
The Gang Suppression Force is intended to support Haitian authorities in confronting armed groups, protecting communities and helping restore security in areas affected by gang violence.
The reported disappearance of four international personnel highlights the risks facing those involved in the mission.
It also raises questions about the security arrangements for personnel traveling through areas where armed groups remain active.
Authorities Focus on Recovery Efforts
The Haitian government says its response remains focused on recovering the missing personnel safely while continuing operations against armed groups.
For now, important questions remain about the men’s condition, their exact whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding the reported abduction.
The situation also underscores the wider challenges facing Haiti as authorities work to restore security and protect civilians.
This is a developing story. Further updates will depend on confirmed information from Haitian authorities, Salvadoran officials and the international security mission.
