Dominican Republic Army personnel detained two Cuban citizens on Tuesday for illegally entering the country from Haiti, according to official reports. During immigration enforcement operations, a patrol intercepted the Cuban nationals, Luis Alberto Pedraza Silveira and Lázaro Calvo Silveira, in the town of Mao, Valverde province, as they attempted to bypass military surveillance via an alleyway, the Army stated in a press release disseminated by local media.
The detainees informed authorities that they were transported in a vehicle that abandoned them prior to reaching the El Guanal military checkpoint. Both individuals were subsequently taken to the Santiago Rodríguez province inspectorate for legal proceedings.
In recent weeks, several undocumented Cuban immigrants have been apprehended for entering the Dominican Republic unlawfully, violating the nation's immigration laws. In March, Army members thwarted an entry attempt by five Cubans through an area where the border wall with Haiti remains incomplete.
The Dominican government has ramped up immigration controls along the border with Haiti, leading to the deportation of 276,215 undocumented foreigners in 2024. Despite these efforts, an increasing number of Cubans risk crossing the border from Haiti, facilitated by the ease of obtaining a visa to Haiti.
The geographic proximity, along with lenient immigration policies, has made the Dominican Republic an attractive destination for Cubans seeking better life opportunities and freedom. Over the past five years, 309 Cubans have obtained Dominican citizenship, surpassing even the historically significant Haitian migrant population.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Immigration to the Dominican Republic
Why are Cubans choosing to enter the Dominican Republic through Haiti?
Cubans often choose this route due to the geographic proximity and the ease of obtaining a visa to Haiti, which allows them to cross into the Dominican Republic seeking better opportunities.
What measures has the Dominican government taken to control illegal immigration?
The Dominican government has intensified border controls with Haiti and increased deportations of undocumented immigrants, deporting 276,215 foreigners in 2024 alone.
How many Cubans have obtained Dominican citizenship in recent years?
In the past five years, 309 Cubans have become Dominican citizens, making them the largest group of naturalized foreigners in the country.