Sectors of Luperón in Puerto Plata wake up in protest against possible eviction.

Puerto Plata, DR—Residents of the Los Barrios sector, also known as Bohiítos, in the La Sabana community of the Luperón municipality in Puerto Plata, have been protesting since early Friday against the possible eviction that authorities are considering.

Groups of residents gathered on the roads, blocking the main road leading to the city center, setting tires on fire, and erecting barricades, which impeded vehicle traffic and caused severe congestion in the area. Holding signs, the protesters expressed their opposition to any attempt to evict them, stating that their homes and way of life are in danger.

The situation has escalated in recent days after rumors circulated about a Government intervention that could lead to the relocation of Bohiítos residents. Residents of the neighborhood say they have lived in the area for years and that many of them lack the resources to access decent housing elsewhere.

“We’re here to defend our homes. We have nowhere else to go. This is our place,” said one of the community leaders. “If the Government wants to do something, let it first offer us a real solution, not just empty words,” said one of the protesters.

The proposed eviction, according to some residents, is linked to alleged urban development projects in the region, although no official statements have confirmed these plans to date. However, uncertainty and fear are palpable among the community, as they feel their rights are being violated.

The strike has drawn the attention of civil society organizations and human rights defenders, who have arrived at the scene to offer support to the protesters. These organizations have urged the local Government to engage in dialogue with residents before making any decisions that affect the community.

Meanwhile, the blockade on the main highway has sparked unrest in other areas of Luperón, where residents are struggling to get to work and shop. Tensions in the region continue to escalate, and many fear the situation could deteriorate further if a peaceful solution isn’t found, according to a report by Julian Pichardo.

This morning, the Luperón City Council announced in a press release that brigades from the City Council and the Fire Department, with the support of the National Police, had removed the debris and cleared traffic to and from the municipality.