In a significant diplomatic engagement, Vice Admiral Luis Rafael Lee Ballester, Director General of Migration (DGM), convened high-level discussions with consular officials from the Haitian Embassy. The meeting, attended by intelligence and migration control directors, focused on operational protocols governing migrant interdiction and detention center management.
Minister Counselor Ralph Giraldo Raphael led the Haitian delegation during talks that centered on the strict application of General Migration Law 285-04 and its implementing regulations. Vice Admiral Lee Ballester provided comprehensive assurances that all migration operations are conducted within this legal framework, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to procedural compliance.
The migration authority chief reiterated that DGM personnel, along with supporting military and police forces, consistently prioritize the protection of human rights for immigrants in irregular status. He further expressed the DGM’s readiness to maintain ongoing dialogue and bilateral cooperation with Haitian authorities on matters within the institution’s jurisdiction.
Addressing the broader regional context, officials highlighted the Dominican Republic’s critical role in ensuring effective and transparent immigration controls aligned with national, bilateral, and international agreements. This discussion occurred against the backdrop of projected record deportation numbers for 2025, following directives from the National Security Council.
Operational details revealed that repatriation processes continue through established border crossings at Dajabón, Elías Piña, Jimaní, and Pedernales during regular operating hours. These procedures involve coordinated efforts between DGM Migration Control personnel, Dominican armed forces, and state security agencies to ensure orderly transfers to Haitian authorities.
The Haitian delegation included Dr. Hipólito Dolis from Legal and Immigration Affairs, Consul General Stephen Junior Cherefant based in Santiago de los Caballeros, Consul Fito Zephieren, and Vice Consul Marie Danielle Lundi. The DGM was represented by General Pilot Juan Carlos Vicente Pérez and Colonel Manuel de Jesús Carrasco Guerrero.