October 23, 2026
The climate of insecurity continues to worsen in Delmas, where four people—including Father Jean Julien Ladouceur—were kidnapped on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. According to church sources, the assailants, identified as members of the “Viv Ansanm” gang, fled after intercepting the priest’s vehicle.
Archbishop Max Leroy Mésidor, president of the Conference of Haitian Bishops, confirmed that the kidnappers have already demanded a ransom in exchange for the hostages’ release. He called on the Haitian National Police to act decisively to stop this spiral of violence affecting priests, businesspeople, and ordinary citizens alike.
Father Ladouceur, pastor of Sainte-Claire Parish in Petite Place Cazeau and national director of the Episcopal Commission for Catholic Education, is well known for his pastoral dedication and spirit of service. His abduction has caused deep emotion within the Catholic community, which is calling for his safe return.
The commune of Delmas, classified as a high-risk area, remains a hotspot of uncontrolled criminal activity. Following the thwarted kidnapping attempt against businessman Cédric Vorbe, this new incident confirms the collapse of security measures and the urgent need for a national action plan against kidnapping networks.
