President Nayib Bukele has launched a military operation to rescue four Salvadoran air force personnel kidnapped by armed gangs in Haiti.
El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele recently launched a military mission. The operation aims to rescue four missing air force members in Haiti. These individuals disappeared this past Sunday.
Also, the victims belong to the Gang Suppression Force. The United Nations recently approved this group to fight rising gang violence. These personnel primarily provide medical support and emergency evacuations.
Meanwhile, the armed forces reported that an ambush occurred in Croix-des-Bouquets. Criminal groups attacked their armored vehicle with explosives. The vehicle caught fire during the violent encounter.
Then, the military stated the personnel were buying food at a market. They faced a cowardly kidnapping while returning to their camp. No specific gang has claimed responsibility for this attack yet.
However, President Bukele issued a stern warning to the kidnappers. He promised severe consequences if the hostages face any harm. He insists that his military will bring them home safely.
As a result, Salvadoran helicopters have joined the search efforts. Ongoing fighting and security risks have hampered previous rescue attempts. The military remains focused on its single objective of recovery.
Next, the Gang Suppression Force reported clashes with armed gang members. They utilized helicopter support during these intense engagements. Early reports suggest several gang members died during the fighting.
Still, the United Nations warns that gangs are adapting to new security measures. These groups now target civilians and expand into rural areas. Haiti currently faces a major political and economic crisis.
Finally, gang violence has killed over 5,500 people in 2024 alone. Armed groups control nearly 85% of Port-au-Prince. The country struggles without a president since the 2021 assassination.