The government of St. Kitts and Nevis has released a statement following the kidnapping of its Honorary Consul, Mr. Harold Marzouka Junior’ s father, over the weekend. Mr. Marzouka Junior is based in Port au Prince, Haiti.

The recent kidnapping was said to be carried out by gangsters who have been causing unrest in the country and to its citizens and residents for the past few months. According to the statement, the consulate’s official vehicle was also said to have been seized.

The government has strongly condemned the incident and other acts carried out by the individuals, stating it is “outraged and is calling upon those who are bent on committing these criminal and heinous undertakings to cease the violence”.

The release also stated that the government will stand with the family during this “undoubtedly traumatic time”.