DR1 Daily News - Dominican Republic

Minister of Interior and Police Faride Raful reported that the 2026 Easter Week (Semana Santa) security operations resulted in the lowest homicide figures recorded in recent years. As of 5 April 2026, a total of 19 people died for suspected actions of criminals as documented during the holiday period.

Speaking following the Citizen Security Plan follow-up meeting on Tuesday, 7 April 2026, in the presence of President Luis Abinader, Minister Raful attributed the decline to the intensified operational reinforcement of the Joint Task Force. The strategy prioritized preventative patrols and active deterrence in high-traffic areas.

The 19 reported fatalities represent a 51% reduction compared to the same period in 2023. Furthermore, the figures show a 41% average decrease against previous years, where homicide tolls frequently reached as high as 39 during...