The Dominican Republic’s National Institute for the Protection of Consumer Rights (Pro Consumidor) has implemented an immediate nationwide prohibition against the sale of toy pistols and shotguns utilizing hydrogel pellets. Executive Director Eddy Alcántara announced the sweeping measure, emphasizing these recreational items present critical dangers to public health and safety, particularly for children and adolescents.
This regulatory action follows multiple alerts from medical specialists documenting severe ocular injuries including retinal detachment, inflammation, and permanent vision loss. Alcántara clarified that hydrogel projectiles can cause blunt trauma and irreversible damage such as eyeball rupture, even when fired at close range.
The institute has activated national inspection operations to monitor toy stores and commercial establishments, ensuring removal of these prohibited items from circulation. Alcántara noted this decision aligns with similar bans already implemented in the United States, Argentina, and Brazil due to documented physical hazards and public security concerns.
Recent incidents have amplified regulatory concerns, including reported disturbances during Three Kings Day celebrations in La Vega province where youth groups engaged in simulated combat using these devices, resulting in police interventions and arrests. Residents in Santo Domingo’s Cancino Adentro sector have additionally expressed alarm over hooded individuals conducting mock chases and confrontations in public spaces, creating community anxiety and endangerment to bystanders.
Pro Consumidor issued a special appeal to parents and guardians to exercise heightened diligence when selecting toys, promoting education on responsible consumption practices under Law 358-05 governing consumer protection in the Dominican Republic.