The Emergency Operations Center (COE) in the Dominican Republic has raised an alert following a significant deterioration in maritime conditions across the country’s Atlantic and Caribbean coasts. The warning, issued based on the latest meteorological bulletin from the Dominican Institute of Meteorology (INDOMET), highlights the presence of abnormal winds and waves that pose serious risks to vessels and coastal communities.
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Operation Leopard launched against drug trafficking; 643 packages of suspected cocaine seized
In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, the Public Prosecutor’s Office initiated Operation Leopardo, resulting in the arrest of four individuals and the seizure of 643 packages of a substance believed to be cocaine. The operation, conducted in La Altagracia province, was a collaborative effort involving the National Drug Control Directorate (DNCD), the Special Prosecutor’s Office for Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing, and the La Altagracia Prosecutor’s Office, with international support from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Among those apprehended are Daniela Amancio Olavarría, Rafael Torres Díaz, Wilson Rafael Inirio, and Néstor Julio Rodríguez, all accused of involvement in drug trafficking and money laundering. They are set to face coercive measures at the Judicial Office of Permanent Services in La Altagracia. Additionally, Moisés Severino Inirio, José Ignacio de Jesús Mota, and Pedro Luis Cordero Espinal remain at large and are linked to the case.
The contraband was discovered on El Carmen Street at the corner of Libertad Avenue in San Rafael del Yuma. The operation saw the participation of 27 prosecutors and 194 DNCD agents, with 17 raids conducted across multiple locations, including the National District, Santo Domingo Este, Guerra, Boca Chica, Barahona, Santiago, Higüey, Cap Cana, and Romana.
Deputy Attorney General Wilson Camacho emphasized that Operation Leopardo reflects Attorney General Yeni Berenice Reynoso’s steadfast commitment to combating drug trafficking and organized crime. DNCD President Vice Admiral José Manuel Cabrera Ulloa echoed this sentiment, stating that the seizure deals a significant blow to transnational criminal networks and underscores the Dominican Republic’s strengthened security efforts.
Authorities confiscated five properties, a recreational boat, firearms, motorcycles, vehicles, and substantial sums of cash totaling RD$1,769,400 and US$159,698. This operation is connected to a previous seizure of 993 kilograms of cocaine in April, linked to a transnational criminal organization led by Serbian nationals Nikola Boros and Antun Mrdeza, who are wanted by Interpol for cocaine trafficking across the United States, Puerto Rico, Spain, and Italy.
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Hoefdraad zal ‘onrechtmatige vervolging’ internationaal aanvechten
Former Surinamese Minister of Finance and Planning, Gillmore Hoefdraad, continues to challenge his prosecution, even after the Court of Justice declared his case inadmissible. The court ruled on Friday that his prosecution was lawful, following his indictment by the National Assembly in August 2020. Hoefdraad, who fled the country, was sentenced in absentia to 12 years in prison and a fine of SRD 500,000 for his involvement in a high-profile corruption scandal at the Central Bank of Suriname. The Public Prosecutor’s Office also sought a criminal investigation to determine if Hoefdraad unlawfully benefited from his actions, though no progress has been made since his conviction. Hoefdraad’s legal advisor, Murwin Dubois, argues that international jurisprudence, particularly the principle of Ne Bis in Idem—which prohibits double jeopardy—could favor Hoefdraad. Dubois cites cases where the Inter-American Court of Human Rights ruled in favor of defendants under similar circumstances. The case has drawn international attention, especially after Interpol refused to assist in Hoefdraad’s extradition, citing political motivations behind the prosecution. Interpol’s decision highlighted procedural flaws and the lack of original legislation justifying the extradition request. Hoefdraad’s legal team now seeks international avenues to address the legality of his prosecution, as domestic courts have dismissed his appeals.
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VIDEO: PM Browne Tells Comrade Washie to “Realign Your Behaviour” After On Air Exchange
PM Browne Tells Comrade Washie to “Realign Your Behaviour” After On Air Exchange
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Social : Prelude to the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the ONA
On October 18, 2025, Georges Wilbert Franck, Haiti’s Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, attended an open house event hosted by the National Old Age Insurance Office (ONA) as part of the institution’s 60th anniversary celebrations. The event, themed ‘ONA Family Day: Sharing and Discovery,’ aimed to foster stronger connections between the ONA, its policyholders, and the broader community. Minister Franck highlighted the ONA’s pivotal role in Haiti’s social security system, particularly in safeguarding workers’ welfare. He commended ONA Director General Ronald Bazile and his team for organizing an event that showcased the talents and potential of the institution’s employees in fields such as craftsmanship, art, and cuisine. Franck emphasized that such initiatives are vital for enhancing public understanding of the ONA’s operations and services, thereby building a positive image of the institution. Ronald Bazile, in his address, noted that the event was a precursor to the ONA’s 60th anniversary celebrations, designed to highlight the institution’s executives, departments, and services. He also underscored the event’s role in promoting Haitian culture through exhibitions, discussions, and other activities. Additionally, the ONA unveiled the ‘ONA Education Kredi Lekòl’ program, an innovative initiative offering credit facilities to insured parents to help cover their children’s educational expenses, further supporting Haitian families.
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There have already been three rock slides on the Jarabacoa highway.
In the past month, the Federico Basilis Highway, a critical route connecting La Vega and Jarabacoa, has experienced at least three significant landslides and rock falls. This section of the highway is currently undergoing a three-year reconstruction project, but the recurring incidents have disrupted traffic and raised safety concerns among residents and officials. The most recent landslide occurred last Thursday, temporarily halting traffic. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as confirmed by the Buena Vista Fire Department, which responded to the scene. By Friday morning, heavy machinery was deployed to clear debris and restore normalcy. This marks the third such incident in just over a month. On September 13, a massive rockfall crushed the front of a passing vehicle, though the passengers escaped unharmed. The construction company promptly compensated the affected individuals. Another landslide on September 30 caused no human or material losses. Local authorities, including the Federation of Neighborhood Associations, the mayors of Buena Vista and Jarabacoa, and the Fire Department, are advocating for enhanced safety measures, particularly improved signage. Joselito Abreu, Mayor of Jarabacoa, emphasized the construction company’s responsibility to ensure pedestrian safety and invest in proper signage. Leomaris Puntiel, President of the Federation of Neighborhood Associations, highlighted the distress among residents who rely on this sole route for commuting and accessing La Vega. Additionally, the landslides have negatively impacted tourism in Jarabacoa, as travelers avoid the area due to safety risks.
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Security : Presentation and authentication measures of the biometric National Identification Card
In a significant move to bolster regional security and combat cybercrime and transnational crime, Haiti’s National Identification Office (ONI), in collaboration with the Organization of American States (OAS), hosted a high-level discussion and information session this week at the Oasis Hotel. The event, attended by members of the diplomatic and consular corps accredited to Haiti, focused on the technical features and authentication process of the new Unique National Identification Card (CINU).
Led by Reynold Guerrier, Director General of the ONI, the session aimed to enhance the ability of consular missions to detect fraudulent identity documents, which are frequently submitted during visa applications or administrative procedures at foreign offices. The initiative is particularly critical for countries heavily impacted by Haitian migration, including Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, the United States, the Bahamas, and Spain. Representatives from the People’s Republic of China and Japan, a major institutional supporter of the ONI, also participated.
During the session, Guerrier detailed the advanced security features of the biometric National Identity Card (NIC), which includes an electronic chip storing fingerprints, facial recognition data, and iris scans. The card also incorporates a QR code and a 2D barcode, making it highly resistant to forgery. Constructed from durable polycarbonate, the card is valid for 10 years. A live demonstration enabled diplomats to differentiate between genuine and counterfeit documents, while technical materials were distributed to aid their identification and verification processes.
This initiative underscores Haiti’s commitment to modernizing its identification system and strengthening international cooperation in the fight against identity fraud and transnational crime.
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VIDEO: PM says the state will fund plastic surgery abroad for woman mauled by Pit Bull
In a heartening display of solidarity, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced that the government will cover all medical and surgical expenses for 27-year-old Shabo Nedwell, who suffered severe injuries in a pit bull attack last week. The incident occurred in Skerrit’s Pasture, where Nedwell was mauled by two dogs owned by her aunt, Stacy Simon. Despite her injuries, Nedwell demonstrated remarkable resilience by attending her University of the West Indies Five Islands graduation ceremony in a wheelchair just days after the attack. Prime Minister Browne praised her courage and assured that the state would also fund any necessary overseas treatment. This tragic event has reignited public debate on the need for stricter regulations on dangerous dog ownership and improved animal-control measures. The government’s swift response underscores its commitment to supporting citizens in times of crisis, while the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks posed by inadequately managed pets.
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VIDEO: PM says UWI Valedictorian Is a “Natural Leader,” Unsure of His Political Aspirations but Pledges Support
PM says UWI Valedictorian Is a “Natural Leader,” Unsure of His Political Aspirations but Pledges Support
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GHFS viert 20-jarig bestaan met duurzame workshops
The Green Heritage Fund Suriname (GHFS) is set to commemorate its 20th anniversary from October 22 to 24, 2025, with a series of workshops focused on sustainability, nature conservation, and collaboration. Founded in 2005 by Monique Pool, GHFS has evolved from a volunteer-driven initiative into a robust environmental organization with paid staff and an extensive network of partners. Over the years, the organization has spearheaded projects in wildlife rehabilitation, marine biodiversity, education, climate awareness, and community development, fostering connections between animals, science, government, and citizens.