Interior Minister highlights advances in motorcycle regulation and public security measures

Santo Domingo.- Interior and Police Minister Faride Raful emphasized the advancements of the National Plan for the Regularization of Motorcycles, a key component in reducing traffic fatalities, where motorcyclists account for 65% of accidents. The plan includes a National Registry of Motorcycles, designed to address theft, crime involvement, and accidents linked to motorcycles. With over 3.8 million motorcycles registered by the DGII, advanced technology is being implemented for effective tracking, particularly in high-risk areas like border zones.

Raful also highlighted the government’s commitment to road safety through the National Pact for Road Safety, led by President Luis Abinader, uniting various sectors to tackle traffic issues. Additionally, the minister underscored the success of Operation Peace Guarantee, a crime-reduction initiative using heat maps to target high-conflict areas. The operation has enhanced community safety, reduced noise pollution, and improved inter-agency coordination through the Joint Task Force.

Regarding nightlife regulations during the Christmas season, Raful confirmed an additional hour for nightclub operations, extending closures to 4:00 a.m. Despite protests from nightclub owners for further flexibility, Raful stressed adherence to noise and safety laws. On the reform of the National Police, she acknowledged challenges in administrative and financial transformation and addressed ongoing investigations into police corruption revealed by Operation Pandora.