Prometheus 6

Surge of Kidnappings Adds to Tension in Haiti

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti -- A rash of kidnappings has raised fears that well-armed, politically aligned street gangs are seeking to destabilize Haiti's new government, threatening U.N.-led efforts to restore security 2 1/2 years after a crippling revolt.

The issue reached boiling point last week when scores of people -- including three Americans -- were snatched by gunmen in a series of bold daylight attacks in the capital.

The kidnapping surge has destroyed a tense calm that has prevailed since President René Préval took power in May and prompted new criticism of the U.N. peacekeeping force sent to restore order after the 2004 revolt that toppled Jean-Bertrand Aristide.

At least 30 people have been kidnapped in July, about the same number as in June, said Leslie Dallemand, chief of the U.N. anti-kidnapping unit in Haiti. The number is probably higher because many families negotiate with kidnappers rather than notify police. The abductions coincide with sharply rising violence in the capital. Police attributed the killings to warring gangs but have made no arrests.

The U.N. mission says the coordinated nature of the attacks suggests an attempt to stir chaos by gangs loyal to Aristide. Préval says the troubles are criminal -- not political -- acts by corrupt police and drug traffickers.

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