Despite government “strategic plans” aimed at curbing gender-based violence, the Dominican Republic has recorded a bloody start to 2026. Data from the Fundación Vida sin Violencia (Life Without Violence Foundation) reveals that at least 18 women were murdered by partners or ex-partners in January and February, representing a staggering 200% increase compared to the six cases reported during the same period in 2025, Diario Libre reports in its coverage of the recent Ministry of Interior and Police press conference.
A trail of violence
The year’s first victim was 30-year-old Rosmery Sosa, allegedly killed by her spouse on 2 January 2026 in the Gualey sector of the National District. Her death was followed by the shooting of Santa Sepúlveda, a 32-year-old teacher in Yamasá. Family members noted that Sepúlveda had faced constant threats from the aggressor, identified as Bayardo Manzueta, after expressing her intent to separate.
The violence has spared no age group, recently claiming the life of 18-year-old Katherine Méndez, who was fatally stabbed in Los Peralejos.
Only 29% of complaints result in protection orders
A critical gap in the justice system has been highlighted by a joint study from the Observatorio Político Dominicano and the Fundación Global Democracia y Desarrollo (Funglode). Analyzing data from 2016 to 2025, the report found that while the country averages 73,887 complaints of gender and domestic violence annually, only approximately 21,501 protection orders are issued.
This means that only three out of every 10 reports result in a formal legal safeguard for the victim. Other key findings from the historical analysis include:
• Total Deaths: 736 women were victims of femicide between 2016 and September 2025.
• High-Risk Areas: Santo Domingo Este, the National District, and San Cristóbal concentrate the highest number of cases.
• Demographics: Most victims are between the ages of 26 and 40, with March and June historically being the deadliest months.
“Puntos Vida” expanding support
In response to the crisis, Minister of Interior and Police Faride Raful provided an update on the “Puntos Vida” (Life Points) initiative following a meeting with the Joint Task Force.
Launched three months ago, the program allows women at risk to trigger alerts and seek immediate help at non-traditional locations, including banks, pharmacies, and retail stores. Minister Raful confirmed that several points are already operational in both public and private sectors, with a nationwide expansion set to accelerate this week.
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Diario Libre
10 March 2026