The Police arrested 300 persons in Las Terrenas, Samana, a first step taken after Police Chief Pedro de Jesus Candelier met with community leaders and businessmen that complained of an increase in crime in the beach destination. Most of those arrested were "motoconchistas" (motorcycle taxis) and several others that did not live in the community were arrested. Community leaders also complained about the operation of mafioso law firms in Samana, which was corroborated by provincial governor Amalia Manzueta de Medina. Those arrested were being checked against Police records In Samana, Police Chief Candelier requested the support of the population to put a stop to increasing crime. He also announced that the Las Terrenas police department would be reinforced with new personnel, that controls would be started regarding the motoconchistas and that there would be an increase in police patrol of the area. (16 October 2000)
