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Reports indicate that Bishop Santiago Rodríguez of the Diocese of San Pedro de Macorís and Hato Mayor has strongly criticized the Dominican Republic‘s deportation practices toward undocumented Haitian migrants, alleging mistreatment, extortion, and corruption.
The bishop reportedly condemned the treatment of migrants during deportations, accusing authorities of forcibly handling individuals, confiscating their belongings, and engaging in physical abuse. “These deportations are often carried out with little regard for human dignity,” he said, adding that migrants deserve respect and the opportunity to collect their possessions before being expelled.
Rodríguez also highlighted a specific incident involving a Nigerian nun mistakenly detained as a Haitian migrant. According to reports, the nun faced inappropriate advances from officers demanding sexual favors in exchange for her release. The bishop described such actions as emblematic of broader misconduct within the deportation process.
While he supports enforcing immigration laws, Rodríguez called for an overhaul to eliminate what he described as “inhumane practices” and “corruption.” He urged authorities to address extortion schemes embedded in the system.
Moreover, amid growing criticism, Minister of Interior and Police Faride Raful announced plans to establish a specialized migration unit to improve border security and ensure proper enforcement of immigration laws. Raful revealed that 1,200 Haitian nationals were deported in a single day last week as part of efforts to curb the entry of organized criminal groups from Haiti.
Raful emphasized the government’s commitment to upholding national sovereignty while ensuring that deportation procedures adhere to legal standards.
The Dominican Republic’s deportation practices have drawn scrutiny from international organizations. The Haitian Bishops’ Conference and Amnesty International have called for humane and non-discriminatory migration policies. Officials in Santo Domingo defend their approach as a sovereign right to address the social and economic pressures linked to Haiti’s ongoing instability.
Despite these assertions, domestic and international calls for reform continue to grow.
