Dominican Republic intensifies crackdown on organized crime

The Dominican Republic is facing a surge in violent crime, highlighted by the operations of the criminal organization known as ‘Los 1,600’. Operating primarily between Santo Domingo and Boca Chica, this group is linked to murder-for-hire, drug trafficking, and armed robbery. The organization has demonstrated significant expansion through alliances with other gangs, such as ‘Los Bloke’.

In response to rising insecurity and reports of over 40 deaths in alleged shootouts with police this month, President Luis Abinader has adopted a harder stance against criminal elements. The President has stated that authorities will actively pursue individuals with outstanding arrest warrants, urging them to surrender voluntarily. While legal experts note that this policy aims to strengthen state authority and citizen security, they emphasize that all police actions must remain within constitutional frameworks and respect due process.