Dominican Republic Strengthens Border Security Amid Haiti Crisis

The Dominican Republic has announced new measures to tighten its border and immigration controls.

President Luis Abinader confirmed the deployment of 1,500 additional troops to the Haitian border, increasing the total number of security forces to over 11,000. The move comes as part of a broader strategy to prevent cross-border violence and unauthorized migration.

To further bolster security, the government will accelerate the construction of the border wall, with 13 more kilometers to be added to the existing 54-kilometer barrier. The wall is designed to deter illegal crossings and improve surveillance.

Abinader also revealed plans to introduce stricter legal penalties targeting individuals who facilitate the illegal entry and stay of undocumented migrants.

The decision follows months of unrest in Haiti, where gang violence has displaced over one million people and overwhelmed the transitional government. Despite international efforts, including the presence of a Kenyan-led peacekeeping force, security conditions continue to deteriorate.

In recent weeks, the Dominican Republic has increased deportations, aiming to repatriate up to 10,000 Haitian nationals per week. These actions have drawn criticism from human rights organizations, who warn of worsening conditions for returnees in Haiti.

President Abinader emphasized the importance of defending national sovereignty while calling for urgent international support to address the root causes of Haiti’s crisis.