Montreal, Quebec – A dream adventure for a Quebec couple turned into a harrowing ordeal when they were violently attacked while traveling through Panama in their converted bus. Genevieve Plouffe and Martin Audette were left traumatized after being assaulted by armed men, with Audette sustaining severe injuries.
The couple had been documenting their travels across North America on social media for the past two years, sharing their experiences with thousands of followers. However, their journey took a terrifying turn when they were ambushed by a group of attackers who vandalized their bus and physically assaulted Audette.
Plouffe recounted the harrowing experience, describing how the assailants used machine guns and a hammer during the attack. She feared the worst when Audette was dragged outside and she lost contact with him, believing he had been killed.
Despite the terrifying ordeal, the attack abruptly stopped when the assailants realized the couple had no money or drugs. Police arrived late, and an ambulance took even longer to reach the scene, adding to the couple’s distress.
In response to the incident, the couple is urging the Canadian government to update its travel advisories for Panama. Although the government currently categorizes the risk as low, Plouffe and Audette believe that more caution should be exercised, especially in high-crime areas.
Global Affairs Canada confirmed they are aware of the situation and are working with local authorities to gather more information and provide support to the victims. However, they emphasized that they are unable to cover legal or medical expenses but can offer guidance on accessing emergency financial assistance through the Department of Justice Victims Fund.
Despite the physical and emotional toll of the attack, Plouffe and Audette remain focused on their recovery. A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to assist them with the substantial costs of medical treatment, legal fees, and security measures following the traumatic incident.