Government to enforce sanctions against illegal fumigations near schools

Santo Domingo.- To protect public health and the environment, multiple government agencies have announced sanctions and criminal actions against those responsible for unauthorized fumigations, particularly near schools. The decision follows recent mass poisonings of students and teachers in Duarte province and other areas, linked to unregulated aerial and ground spraying.

Authorities, including the Ministries of Health, Environment, Education, Agriculture, and Interior, along with the Attorney General’s Office and the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation (IDAC), will implement stricter controls. Measures include mandatory training for pesticide applicators, continuous epidemiological surveillance, and the establishment of security perimeters around schools to prevent exposure. The Environment Ministry will also monitor pesticide use, while Agriculture will regulate applicators and trace product distribution.

Legal actions will be enforced against violators, with IDAC overseeing aerial fumigation compliance. Officials urge all fumigation operators to adhere to national regulations to prevent sanctions and ensure public safety. The announcement was made during a press conference led by Health Minister Víctor Atallah and other top officials.