Blow to illicit trafficking: Dominican Navy thwarts five illegal trips in 72 hours
The Dominican Republic Navy has intensified its surveillance and intelligence efforts along the coastline, successfully dismantling five illicit migrant trafficking operations destined for the neighboring island of Puerto Rico. These actions, carried out within a 72-hour period, underscore the institution’s commitment to national maritime security.
One of the most notable operations was carried out in collaboration with the United States Coast Guard. During this joint mission, a vessel with 19 people on board was intercepted, who were attempting to make the crossing irregularly. Those involved will be placed in the custody of the Dominican Navy to follow the current cooperation protocols.
Vessel dismantling and combating illegal fishing
In addition to the interdiction of migrants, naval authorities carried out strategic operations at critical points of the national geography. In Boca de Yuma, Costa Esmeralda (Miches), and Rocoquí beach (Macao), four clandestine vessels were located and destroyed. These ships, measuring between 22 and 30 feet in length, were equipped with outboard motors and fuel supplies ready for the illegal trafficking of people.
The Dominican Republic Navy reaffirms its commitment to maintain constant operations, both naval and terrestrial, in coordination with national and international agencies to neutralize human trafficking and protect our marine resources.
On another front of action, the naval institution also combated illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. In the vicinity of Cabo Rojo, Pedernales province, three artisanal vessels were intercepted. In this operation, seven Haitian nationals were detained for using prohibited fishing methods and equipment in territorial waters.
Results of the operations
- Total number of people detained: 35 individuals.
- Nationalities involved: Includes 11 individuals of Haitian nationality.
- Legal actions: The detainees have been handed over to the General Directorate of Migration for the corresponding processes in accordance with the law.
Alofoke Deportes will continue to monitor the efforts of the Dominican authorities to guarantee the integrity of the coasts and combat illicit activities that threaten national security.
