Dominican Army intensifies border operations against smuggling and irregular migration

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic Army (ERD) seized more than 31,000 units of contraband goods and detained 3,651 Haitian migrants in irregular immigration status during operations conducted from September 14 to 20, 2026.

According to the Army’s weekly operational report, the seizures were made as part of ongoing border surveillance, territorial security and immigration control operations across the country.

The confiscated goods included 29,400 packs of cigarettes, along with 1,434 bottles of rum and 115 bottles of whiskey. Most of the cigarette seizures were carried out by units from the 4th and 5th Infantry Brigades.

Authorities also arrested 14 people who were referred to the judicial system. Twelve face charges related to the trafficking of undocumented migrants, while two were arrested for alleged illegal possession of firearms.

As part of operations targeting illicit activities along the border, the Army also detained 52 vehicles, including 43 motorcycles, four cars, five SUVs and a minivan. Two homemade firearms were also seized within the jurisdiction of the 3rd Infantry Brigade.

The Army reported that during the previous four weeks, from August 17 to September 13, its operations resulted in the seizure of more than 536,000 contraband items, 84 marijuana portions and 131 vehicles, while 9,896 migrants in irregular immigration status were detained.

The ERD said it will continue strengthening its presence in border areas as part of efforts to combat illicit activities, support national security and protect the country’s territorial sovereignty.