The border crossing at Dajabon was opened briefly in order to permit the local markets to conduct some business. Bilateral trade between Haitians and Dominicans at this frontier town is vital to both sides of the border with food, medicine and clothing being important items of trade. Army General Tulio Reynoso told reporters that after consulting both civilian and military authorities, the border was opened until 5pm Friday. While mediators were hard at work in Port au Prince, the Listin Diario reported that the exodus of foreigners from Haiti was beginning. Over 200 people from the United States, Canada and France were awaiting outbound flights at the Toussaint L’Ouverture airport. Refugees were also reportedly entering the Dominican Republic by land routes, as word came that the rebel leader, Guy Philippe, had announced plans to attack Cap-Haitien over this carnival weekend. Meanwhile, Father Regino Martintez, SJ, the local head of the Jesuit Refugee Service, told reporters that the best way to reduce tensions along the northern frontier would be to keep the markets open. The JRS also requested that the Dominican government prepare to receive Haitian refugees. Just as President Mejia was announcing the suspension of the repatriation policy for undocumented Haitians, 40 Haitian police agents sought refuge on the Dominican side of the border.