Bukele announces an operation in Haiti to find four Salvadorans

Juno7 reports his message on Facebook, while Métropole posts it on X. Both media outlets report that he says the men were kidnapped as they were returning from buying groceries, in a local supermarket according to Juno7, and in a market in the area according to Métropole.

Message to Gang Leaders

Le Quotidien 509 cites this phrase from the president: "Today's attack is nothing compared to what will come if you do not return the four hostages alive." Métropole reports a different version: "is nothing compared to what will happen."

Bukele also highlights his country's experience. Métropole quotes him saying: "We have already cleaned up with gangs in El Salvador, and we can do the same with you." He leaves open a negotiated outcome. According to Le Quotidien 509, he affirms that everything will return to normal if the four men are returned: "The decision is in your hands."

What Happened on October 18

According to Juno7, a vehicle carrying the four soldiers was attacked on Sunday, October 18, in Croix-des-Bouquets, in the Santo area. The El Salvadoran army indicates that the men were able to exit the burned vehicle but their whereabouts remain unknown. According to the army, the intensity of the fighting hindered both ground and air approaches, and helicopters sent for reinforcement came under fire.

The four men are part of the Gang Enforcement Unit (FRG), supported by the United Nations. Until Bukele's statement, the El Salvadoran army and the FRG had said the men were missing. Juno7 notes that the presidential message now refers to a hostage situation.

Shooting and Injuries in the Cul-de-Sac Plain

Le Quotidien 509 reports heavy gunfire and helicopter flyovers in several locations in the Cul-de-Sac Plain. In Santo, according to Patrick Joseph, head of the Committee for Duvivier's Revival, armed men are preventing residents from leaving certain neighborhoods and using them as human shields. He adds that activities are paralyzed in the area.

In a press release on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, the FRG confirmed that four of its members had been injured since the start of operations on October 18. It states that they are receiving medical care. It also notes that several gang members have been killed and others injured, and that operations continue.

What Remains Unknown

Bukele's message does not specify where the four men are being held. Juno7 also notes that he does not detail additional means deployed to find them.