The Attorney General’s Office (PGR) has issued new instructions prioritizing the investigation of migrant trafficking rings, particularly those involving public officials and security forces.
The “General Instructions for Investigations into Illicit Trafficking in Migrants,” released on April 25th, come alongside the creation of a specialized unit dedicated to investigating migrant trafficking and related crimes. This unit, the Unit for Investigating Illicit Trafficking in Migrants and Related Offenses (UITIMC), was established by the Superior Council of the Public Ministry at the suggestion of the Executive Branch.
The instructions explicitly direct prosecutors nationwide to prioritize cases where there is intelligence or evidence suggesting the involvement of public officials, police officers, or military personnel in migrant trafficking structures. This includes situations where these individuals engage in extortion, accept bribes, or receive any form of payment in exchange for facilitating the crime. In such cases, the instructions mandate requesting the immediate suspension of the involved individual’s duties through competent authorities.
Furthermore, the instructions emphasize the seizure of assets linked to illicit migrant trafficking activities. This includes accounts, properties, vehicles, and any other assets connected to individuals or organizations involved in this criminal enterprise. Notably, the guidelines also empower prosecutors to seek the legal seizure, with the aim of subsequent confiscation, of vehicles owned by individuals or companies used to transport trafficked migrants.
The Attorney General’s Office highlighted the complex and lucrative nature of migrant trafficking, describing it as a transnational organized crime that undermines migration control and national security systems. The creation of UITIMC aims to dismantle criminal structures that launder assets facilitating illegal entry into Dominican territory.
Led by Prosecutor Yoanna Bejarán, the specialized unit will comprise members from various state intelligence, security, and defense agencies with national jurisdiction. They will be selected based on international standards for model investigative agencies, receive advanced training, and have access to cutting-edge resources and technology.
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Listin Diario
DR1 News
28 April 2025