DR1 Daily News - Dominican Republic

In a high-stakes maritime pursuit off the coast of Barahona, the National Drug Control Agency (DNCD) intercepted a shipment of 564 packages of suspected cocaine, contributing to a record-breaking first quarter for Dominican counternarcotics operations. The mission, supported by the Dominican Armada (ARD), Air Force (FARD), and Army (ERD), is part of a broader crackdown that has seen drug seizures rise by more than 50% year-over-year.

The Barahona interdictionFollowing intelligence reports of a “go-fast” boat approaching from South America, authorities launched a multi-agency air, sea, and land deployment on 22 March 2026. After an intense, hours-long pursuit, the suspects attempted to evade capture by jettisoning cargo and grounding their 23-foot vessel at San Rafael Beach on the country’s southwestern coast. Six men were arrested at the scene.

In addition to the 13 sacks...