According to the Christian Aid Ministries website statement, two of the 17 missionaries kidnapped by the 400 Mawozo gang in Haiti have been released.
“We have learned that two of the hostages in Haiti were released,” the statement read on Nov. 21. “We praise God for this! Only limited information can be provided, but we are able to report that the two hostages who were released are safe, in good spirits, and being cared for.”
The capture of the missionaries was reported on Oct. 16, accompanied by demands from 400 Mawozo seeking a $17 million ransom for their release, or $1 million for each hostage. The age range of the kidnapped missionaries ranged from as old as 48 years to just eight months.
Despite threats that the gang would kill the hostages if the ransom was not delivered, the two hostages were released without the ransom being paid, according to an anonymous “source of knowledge” for the Miami Herald. The two released missionaries are sick adults.
U.S. and Haitian authorities have not commented on the release and have largely kept quiet about negotiations since the kidnapping occurred. Haitian police, the U.S. Embassy in Haiti, the Justice Minister, the Foreign Minister, the Prime Minister’s Office, or the U.S. State Department have not responded further.
“While we rejoice at this release, our hearts are with the fifteen people who are still being held,” Christian Aid Ministries said in their statement.
The organization has not responded directly to questions but did release a further statement on Nov. 22, saying they are praying for the remaining 15 captives.
