San Cristóbal authorities dismantle adulterated alcohol network

Authorities in San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic, have dismantled a clandestine network dedicated to the manufacturing, labeling, packaging, and distribution of adulterated premium alcoholic beverages. The operation, conducted by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs (MICM) through CECCOM and the Illicit Affairs Table, targeted a three-story building in the Doña Aña municipal district of Yaguate.

During the raid, officials seized 25,496 illicit items with an estimated value of RD$ 5,977,358. The confiscated goods included 4,780 bottles of premium liquor ready for distribution, 75 gallons of pure alcohol, 27 five-gallon containers prepared for bottling, 1,363 700ml bottles, and three gallons of molasses. Authorities also recovered 1,542 empty bottles, counterfeit labels, seals, and industrial machinery used for mixing and packaging.

The investigation began in April following the interception of a vehicle carrying 180 bottles of adulterated premium rum. Minister Yayo Sanz Lovatón stated that these actions aim to prevent deaths related to the consumption of adulterated beverages and maintain the country's status regarding the USTR Special 301 Watch List.