The Migration Agency (DGM) in Santiago with the military and migratory control crews reportedly arrested several undocumented Haitians. The sweep was carried out on the avenues Salvador Estrella Sadhalá, 27 de Febrero, Circunvalación Sur and in the municipalities of Licey al Medio, Tamboril, Navarrete and Puñal. Also in the nearby province of Valverde. Individuals detained were sent to the border town of Dajabón, processed, then deported.
As reported in 7 Dias, the president of the Dominican Espiscopal Conference, Monsignor Diómedes Espinal said that the Haitians are fleeing poverty in Haiti and migration to the Dominican Republic is difficult to control because the border is open. “They are fleeing the difficult situation in which they live in Haiti,” said Monsignor Espinal.
Nevertheless, Santiago Mayor Abel Martínez has complained that the city is overrun by undocumented Haitians and the Mayor has intensified efforts to control the many Haitian vendor points in public spaces throughout the city. On 15 November 2017, the Santiago city government issued a resolution banning undocumented foreigners from setting up shop in public spaces, including parks, avenues, and street sidewalks. Listin Diario reported that city government inspectors are requiring Dominican IDs prior to authorizing the street posts. But ambulatory street vendors continue to be common.
Archbishop of Santiago, Monsignor Ramón Benito de la Rosa y Carpio said that there are Mafiosi groups made up by Dominicans, Haitians and other foreigners that profit from human trafficking.
Meanwhile, Army chief, Mayor General Braulio Alcántara López announced changes to the infantry commanders in the border areas of Dajabón, Duvergé and Las Matas de Farfán.
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Diario Libre
Listin Diario
Listin Diario
12 July 2017
