Dominican Republic ‘seals’ border on Haiti turmoil

Santo Domingo.- . Dominican Republic’s Defense Ministry has "sealed" the border on Haiti political instability, with heightened patrols by highly trained troops, ready to act against any adversity.

Haiti opposition groups on Wednesday called for civil disobedience, which further jeopardizes president Michel Martelly’s Administration.

The measure however doesn’t include additional troops, according to Border Security (CESFRONT) director Carlos Aguirre, who affirmed that there are enough soldiers to patrol and deal with any problems that could emerge in the heels of the call.

He did confirm constant patrols along the entire 370 kilometer border, which in his view has attracted the attention of many people.

The official said the implementation of ‘Operation Shield’ has halted the illegal entry of more than 15,000 Haitians or nearly 1,000 daily, just in the first two weeks of January.

Aguirre added that the forces deployed are well equipped top patrol the area and affirmed that precautions have been taken to avert any regretful situation at the border.

Background check

Every Haitian detained while trying to enter illegally is subjected to a thorough background check to determine their true identity and arrest Haitian fugitives, a Defense Ministry source told diariolibre.com.do.