Army seizes 100,000 contraband cigarettes in Dajabón

In a targeted intelligence operation, Dominican military forces have intercepted a massive shipment of contraband cigarettes near the nation’s northern border with Haiti. The successful mission resulted in the confiscation of 100,000 illicit cigarette units in Dajabón province, marking a significant blow to cross-border smuggling networks.

The operation was initiated following intelligence reports indicating the movement of illegal merchandise into Dominican territory. Personnel from military intelligence services collaborated with members of the 10th Infantry Battalion to execute the strategic intervention. The operation focused on the Colonia Japonesa sector, specifically targeting the vicinity of a residence linked to an individual known by the alias ‘Buchín’.

As military forces approached the location, multiple Haitian nationals were intercepted at the scene. The primary suspect, Buchín, managed to evade capture by fleeing upon detecting the military presence. The abandoned contraband consisted of 10 large boxes containing Capital-brand cigarettes, with each box holding 50 packages of 200 units, culminating in the substantial seizure of 100,000 cigarettes.

The confiscated merchandise has been securely transported to the headquarters of the 10th Infantry Battalion, where it remains in military custody pending formal legal proceedings. Dominican Army officials emphasized their ongoing commitment to combating illicit activities along the border region through coordinated operations with various state institutions.

The military command reiterated its strategic focus on protecting national sovereignty and maintaining legal order in border areas through continuous intelligence-driven operations against smuggling networks and other illegal cross-border activities.