Environmental authorities dismantle illegal structures in protected zones

Environmental authorities in the Dominican Republic and Mexico have conducted enforcement actions against illegal constructions in protected zones.

In the Dominican Republic, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources dismantled 73 illegal structures within the Hoyo Claro Natural Monument in the Verón area. The operation, involving the military and migration authorities, targeted various concrete and makeshift buildings. Officials noted that some structures appeared recently abandoned, with food still being prepared at the site. The intervention aims to prevent further occupation of the protected land under national security and environmental protection decrees.

In Mexico, the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) closed down unauthorized works in a coastal ecosystem near La Paz, Baja California Sur. An inspection of a 1,028-square-meter site revealed recreational and service structures, including kitchens, dining areas, ramps, and walls, built without the required environmental impact authorization from Semarnat. Profepa has initiated administrative proceedings to address the imminent risk of environmental damage.