Santiago Merchants Protest Police Raids During Holiday Season
Merchants in Santiago’s historic center are voicing their discontent over recent police raids in their establishments, targeting Haitians with irregular migratory status. The business owners claim these actions negatively impact trade as they drive away customers.
Juan Francisco, proprietor of Frank’s Supply Store at the intersection of 30 de Marzo Street and Cucurullo Street, expressed his concerns. Since December 22, police have repeatedly entered his store causing chaos, especially during the busy holiday season.
"We’re not against authorities doing their job, but they’re causing disorder inside our store," Francisco said. He also noted that this isn’t the first time the Police National has assumed a role that belongs to the Migration General Directorate (DGM).
The incidents occurred near a bus stop leading to Dajabón, where hundreds of Haitians attempted to return home. Despite their willingness to leave voluntarily, police attempted to force them onto a truck, drawing protests from both Dominicans and Haitians.
The business owners ask authorities to carry out their operations outside their stores, respecting their private property rights. The Merchant Association of the Historic Center of Santiago alsoтами (3026 visits) has expressed its support for the aggrieved business owners.