The Ministry of Environment is investigating who is behind the extraction of sand from the Las Dunas de Baní protected area in violation of Environment Law 64-00. Environment Minister Orlando Jorge Mera, accompanied by members of the National Environmental Protection Service (SENPA), visited the Natural Monument Las Dunas de Baní and Salinas Beach to inspect the damage.
He said an investigation was initiated three weeks ago to find those responsible for the damage to the natural park and bring them to justice.
Jorge Mera said: “No one is above the law, and those who thought they were above the law with irregular permits from previous administrations, know that we are coming after them and that we will not allow or tolerate the violation of the country’s environmental wealth, which belongs to all of us.”
In a 24 January 2022 press release, the Ministry said that seven trucks were detained and accused of operating on a holiday. Likewise, tons of sand was seized on Sunday, 23 January 2022 in a Ministry of Environment operation. The Ministry of Environment said it had the backing of the Ministry of Defense.
Likewise, Jorge Mera made a call to the citizens to continue denouncing through social media violations that affect the national fauna and flora.
Las Dunas de Las Calderas or Dunas de Baní Natural Monument is the largest and most relevant dune system in the insular Caribbean. There are mountains of sand that reach as high as 35 meters. The government protection of the area dates back to Decree #233 issued in 1996. This protection was later incorporated into Environment Law 64-00.
Currently, Las Dunas has an area of 20km², and offers great scenic beauty, in addition to protecting the surrounding communities from hurricane winds and harboring unique species adapted to these dry and saline environments.
The tour of Las Dunas is impressive and one of its great attractions is that they are located in front of a large beach, for swimming and non-motorized water sports.
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Ministry of Environment
Ministry of Environment
25 January 2022