Dominican government launches operation to protect six national parks from environmental crimes

Led operationally by the National Environmental Protection Service (SENPA) with support from the Armed Forces and multiple government agencies, the operation is being carried out simultaneously in Los Haitises, Valle Nuevo, Sierra de Bahoruco, José del Carmen Ramírez, Armando Bermúdez, and La Humeadora national parks.

Authorities are targeting illegal land occupation, unauthorized logging and burning, slash-and-burn farming, illegal fishing, and other activities that damage protected ecosystems. Teams are conducting surveillance, enforcement and environmental recovery efforts in affected areas.

The operation also involves the Army, Navy, Air Force, General Directorate of Migration, Ministry of Agriculture, and the Specialized Prosecutor’s Office for the Defense of the Environment and Natural Resources, among other state institutions.

The Ministry of Defense said protecting natural resources is a key component of national security and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting environmental conservation through the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces.