Police and protesters clash during march in Friusa

Friusa.- A protest against illegal immigration in the Dominican Republic, held on Sunday to commemorate the 181st anniversary of the battle against the Haitian invasion, ended in clashes with police, who dispersed demonstrators with tear gas. The demonstration took place in “Hoyo de Friusa,” Bávaro, an area with a significant Haitian community, and was organized by the nationalist group “Ancient Dominican Order.” Some protesters, reportedly hooded, attempted to cross the agreed protest route, leading to confrontations with authorities, though no injuries were reported.

The Dominican Republic and Haiti share a long history of tensions, dating back to Haiti’s occupation of Santo Domingo in 1822 and its subsequent independence 22 years later. Protesters chanted nationalist slogans, expressing opposition to Haitian immigration. Official data indicate nearly 500,000 Haitians live in the country, but nationalist groups claim the number has risen significantly in recent years due to economic instability and violence in Haiti.

Despite these measures, the “Ancient Dominican Order” considers the government’s response inadequate. Its leader, Angelo Vásquez, warned of a potential national strike if stronger actions were not taken to “reaffirm Dominican identity.” Protesters, many of whom traveled from Santo Domingo, criticized the enforcement of deportation policies, arguing that current removals are insufficient. Government figures show that in 2024 alone, 276,000 Haitians were expelled. President Abinader defended the presence of Haitians in areas like Friusa, stating they are primarily employed in agriculture, livestock, and construction, where they make up 30% of the workforce, according to the United Nations Population Fund.