Armed kidnappers in Haiti have seized one of the country’s top government and law enforcement figures in Port-au-Prince, in what is being described as the most high-profile abduction the nation has seen in years, according to media reports released Saturday.
James Boyard — who holds the dual roles of cabinet director at the Defense Ministry and inspector general of Haiti’s national police — was taken by force on Thursday from the Bourdon neighborhood of the capital. The Associated Press reported the details, citing a source with knowledge of the situation.
Boyard is considered one of Haiti’s foremost experts on security matters. His kidnapping represents a serious escalation in the targeting of high-ranking officials at a time when gang organizations have been steadily tightening their control over Port-au-Prince.
Abductions in Haiti have been on the rise as criminal networks continue to expand their reach, further eroding the government’s authority and deepening an already severe humanitarian and security crisis gripping the country.
As of Saturday, no official statement has been made by authorities regarding any efforts to secure Boyard’s release.
