American YouTuber Addison Pierre Maalouf has reportedly been kidnapped in Haiti by a gang affiliated with Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizer.
The New York Post reports the content creator traveled to the country to interview the notorious gang leader.
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A fellow content creator, Lalem, confirmed Addison’s kidnapping.
Maalouf, who is also known online as “YourFellowArab” and simply “Arab,” journeyed from his home in Atlanta, Georgia, to the wartorn country. He aimed to interview the notorious leader of the G9 Family and Allies gang, “Barbecue.” The YouTuber has over a million subscribers on his channel. However, the streamer was allegedly kidnapped on the first day of his arrival.
400 Mawozo gang members reportedly apprehended the YouTuber and a Haitian associate on March 14.
The violent group has been paid $40,000 for his release, but the kidnappers demand $600,000, per the New York Post.
Maalouf’s friend Lalem stated he was attempting to keep the matter away from the public eye but decided to speak out since it is now headline news.
Addison’s Friend Speaks
He took to X, formerly known as Twitter, writing, “Tried keeping it private for two weeks, but it’s getting out everywhere now.”
“Yes, Arab has been kidnapped in Haiti and we’re working on getting him out,” Lalem said. He assured viewers that “he’ll be out soon.”
Tried keeping it private for 2 weeks, but it’s getting out everywhere now, Yes Arab has been kidnapped in Haiti and we’re working on getting him out. Love yall he’ll be out soon ❤️
— Lalem (@Lalem) March 29, 2024
In addition, Lalem posted the last video Addison released online. The content showed the YouTuber at a Haitian hotel discussing the dangers of being in the area. Evidently, he was well aware of the risks.
This is the last video he recorded before he got kidnapped, if you have his number pls don’t text him while he’s in there for safety reasons. 🙏 https://t.co/JJ7y1uVjGA
— Lalem (@Lalem) March 29, 2024
The U.S. Department of State has advised American citizens not to visit the country, Forbes reports.
Social Media Reacts
Roomies shared their thoughts on the traveling YouTuber’s kidnapping.
@the.bundles.show asked, “Why would you play with a Haitian man named BARBECUE.”
“People think that it’s a joke…they rather risk their lives for views. It’s really not worth it,” @rich_cave stated.
@thegirls.tweets added, “he literally walked into the danger… prayers up but like why?”
Hopefully, Addison Maalouf will be back on American soil soon.