Dominican network that trafficked undocumented Haitians in the south of the country arrested

Azua – The Army of the Dominican Republic (ERD) dismantled an alleged network dedicated to the trafficking of undocumented Haitians in the southern region after arresting the suspected ringleader and several people involved in an operation carried out in the community of Las Guanábanas in Azua.

Felix Leonardo Alcantara Severino, known as “Leonel” or “El Presidente,” the alleged leader of the group, was arrested while escorting a bus carrying 70 Haitians in an irregular migratory situation.

The operation included the capture of other Dominicans linked to the case, among them Yoan Figuereo Encarnación and José David Gómez Díaz, who were traveling with seven Haitians in a Nissan Note vehicle, along with Alcántara.

Another detainee identified is Edward Aquino, known as “El Grande,” who was driving the Hyundai Universe Luxury bus, owned by José Antonio Rosario Rosario Rosario, used to transport the 70 undocumented immigrants.

During the operation, authorities also located a Mercedes Benz GLE 450, allegedly used by Alcantara in previous smuggling operations. The vehicle was abandoned in San Juan de la Maguana due to tire damage.

The Army said the detainees will be handed over to the Public Prosecutor’s Office for prosecution. Likewise, the seized vehicles and the undocumented Haitians were transferred to the 13th Infantry Battalion of the ERD.