Immigration launches operation to deport 10,000 weekly

Santo Domingo.- The General Directorate of Migration (DGM) has initiated operations to deport 10,000 Haitians per week, starting Thursday in Greater Santo Domingo, as agreed in a recent National Defense and Security Council meeting led by President Luis Abinader.

Vice Admiral Luis Rafael Lee Ballester, the Director General of Migration, emphasized that these operations are conducted with respect for human rights, prudence, and a proportional use of force, in line with the President’s directives. He noted that comprehensive adjustments are being made to strategies, intelligence, logistics, and protocols for detention and transport.

The deportation efforts involve collaboration with various institutions, including the Armed Forces, National Police, and Public Prosecutor’s Office, and will focus on neighborhoods across the National District, Santo Domingo province, Santiago, and La Altagracia.

Lee Ballester confirmed that the operations will comply with the General Migration Law 285-04 and the implementing decree 631-11, ensuring the respect for human rights throughout the process. Migrants detained will undergo a screening process, and those without open immigration cases will be repatriated, aiming to address the perceived overpopulation of migrants in Dominican communities while maintaining strict protocols for dignity and human rights.