In a high-stakes maritime pursuit off the coast of Barahona, the National Drug Control Agency (DNCD) intercepted a shipment of 564 packages of suspected cocaine, contributing to a record-breaking first quarter for Dominican counternarcotics operations. The mission, supported by the Dominican Armada (ARD), Air Force (FARD), and Army (ERD), is part of a broader crackdown that has seen drug seizures rise by more than 50% year-over-year.
The Barahona interdiction
Following intelligence reports of a “go-fast” boat approaching from South America, authorities launched a multi-agency air, sea, and land deployment on 22 March 2026. After an intense, hours-long pursuit, the suspects attempted to evade capture by jettisoning cargo and grounding their 23-foot vessel at San Rafael Beach on the country’s southwestern coast. Six men were arrested at the scene.
In addition to the 13 sacks containing the 564 packages, agents seized a 60-horsepower outboard motor, a handgun with a loaded magazine, and several live rounds. The suspects are linked to a criminal structure based in the eastern region of the country.
Record-breaking Q1 statistics
The Barahona seizure bolsters a significant upward trend in interdiction success. DNCD spokesperson Carlos Devers reported on 24 March 2026 that total seizures for the year have already reached 8,620 kilograms (8.6 tons) when including international cooperation. This represents a 56.11% increase compared to the same period in 2025, Diario Libre shared with its readers.
Even when accounting only for domestic operations (DNCD and Armed Forces), the 7,020 kilograms seized so far in 2026 reflect a 27.14% increase over the previous year’s first quarter.
Authorities confirmed that cocaine remains the primary substance seized, though the figures include marijuana, crack, and opioids. “We expect these forceful numbers to continue, sending a clear message to transnational organized crime that they will not pass through the Dominican Republic,” Devers stated.
The 564 packages from the Barahona operation have been sent to the National Institute of Forensic Sciences (INACIF) for definitive weighing and chemical analysis.
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DNCD
El Dia
Diario Libre
25 March 2026