YouTube Star YourFellowArab Allegedly Kidnapped in Haiti
American YouTuber Addison Pierre Maalouf, known online as YourFellowArab, was abducted by members of the 400 Mawozo gang in Haiti on March 14. Maalouf, who had travelled from Atlanta to Haiti to interview the notorious gang leader Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier, was kidnapped just 24 hours after arriving in the country. A Haitian colleague who was travelling with Maalouf was also abducted.
Kidnapping Details
- Maalouf is currently being held for a $600,000 ransom.
- $40,000 has already been paid as part of the ransom.
Confirmation and Efforts for Release
The news of his kidnapping was confirmed by fellow streamer Lalem, who wrote on social media that efforts are underway to secure Maalouf’s release.
Pre-Kidnapping Warnings
Maalouf had hinted at his risky travel plans in a social media post on March 10, saying, “If I die, thanks for watching what I’ve put out. If I live, all glory to God.” On March 13, Maalouf shared a video from a hotel in Haiti, warning viewers about the dangers of the country and their plans to travel to Port-au-Prince. He emphasised the need to travel during daylight hours, as the city is run by gangs.
Current Situation
According to YouTuber Miles “Lord Miles” Routledge, who claimed to have spoken with Maalouf using his kidnappers’ phone, Maalouf had arrived in Haiti with a fixer named Sean Roubens Jean Sacra to film the ongoing conflict in the country. Routledge revealed that Maalouf is being kept in a cage on the eastern outskirts of Port-au-Prince.
