Mr. Maalouf has over 1.4 million subscribers on YouTube...
American YouTuber Addison Pierre Maalouf, popularly known as YourFellowArab or Arab, has allegedly been kidnapped in Haiti by one of the gangs that become its de facto rulers.
According to the reports, the YouTuber is being held for a $600,000 ransom, and even though $40,000 has already been paid, the kidnappers are continuing to demand a large sum of money to secure Mr Maalouf's release.
Mr. Maalouf has over 1.4 million subscribers on YouTube. He is famous for exploring dangerous places that are void of general tourism.
As the news of his kidnapped spread online, fellow streamer Lalem confirmed that his friend had been taken hostage. "Tried keeping it private for two weeks, but it's getting out everywhere now," Lalem posted, "Yes Arab has been kidnapped in Haiti and we're working on getting him out," he added.
On March 10, Mr Maalouf also posted that he was "going on another one of those trips". "If I die, thanks for watching what I've put out. If I live, all glory to God," he wrote.
Arab has stated that despite the hardships, he's going to come out with a great video after this, and he should be out in no time. Sean was actually offered to be let go, but he's a great guy and doesn't want to leave Arab on his own, so he has decided to stay," Mr. Routledge added.
Mr. Routledge also criticised the US government and the State Department for failing to secure Mr. Maalouf's release. He said they were "very hands-off on helping, even though Arab is a US citizen."
Meanwhile, in a statement to The Post, The State Department confirmed that it is "aware of reports of the kidnapping of a US citizen in Haiti" but would not provide any details.
"The US Department of State and our embassies and consulates abroad have no higher priority than the safety and security of US citizens overseas. "We reiterate our message to US citizens: Do not travel to Haiti," a spokesperson said.
The Brief. Sign up to receive the top stories you need to know right now.