Tragic crash in Dominican Republic claims lives of 13 Haitian migrants

At least 13 Haitian migrants lost their lives when the SUV they were travelling in veered off the road and plunged into an irrigation canal in the Dominican Republic.

The incident occurred as they were making their way toward the cities of Santiago and Santo Domingo on Sunday.

At least 13 migrants killed in accident — The accident scene which claimed the lives of 13 Haitian migrants. (Dominican Today photo)

According to reports, authorities revealed that the SUV was believed to be involved in the illegal transportation of these individuals from Haiti.

Details about the driver remain uncertain, as he is said to have disappeared from the accident scene.

Among the unfortunate victims were a newborn and a four-year-old girl.

Preliminary reports suggest the vehicle was carrying 16 to 18 passengers. Out of these, only three have been reported to survive.

Haiti's escalating crisis

Haiti’s long-standing economic and political struggles, combined with a surge in gang dominance and violent crimes, have left many in desperation.

With gangs controlling a significant portion of the nation’s capital, Port-au-Prince, crimes like kidnappings, armed robberies, and carjackings have become frequent.

These circumstances have driven many Haitians to look for employment opportunities in the neighboring Dominican Republic, a nation with a comparatively stronger economy.

Dominican Republic's measures to manage the influx of Haitian migrants

The influx of Haitian migrants has led the Dominican Republic to implement stricter immigration policies.

One of their significant endeavors includes the construction of a 100-mile concrete barrier along their 380-kilometer boundary with Haiti, aimed at curbing the movement of undocumented migrants.

The migration challenge is further underlined by the fact that each year, the Dominican Republic deports between 100,000 to 200,000 Haitian immigrants.