Dominican Republic Declares War on Drug Trafficking: Corruption and Collusion Threaten Abinader’s Campaign
Santo Domingo Launches All-Out Assault on Illicit Trade
In a bold move to crack down on drug trafficking in the Dominican Republic, President Luis Abinader has launched an all-out assault on the illicit trade. The administration’s efforts have been met with applause from international partners, including the US State Department.
Corruption and Collusion: A Daunting Task Ahead
However, experts warn that corruption and collusion between elites and organized crime networks will make it a daunting task to eradicate the drug trade. According to Judge Heiromy Castro:
- “The case touches basically every ministry. There was a culture of impunity that allowed it to happen.”
Progress Made in Combating Corruption
Despite these challenges, Abinader’s administration has made significant strides in combating corruption. The Attorney General’s Special Prosecutor for Administrative Corruption (PEPCA) has brought several high-profile cases against government ministers, security force officials, and close family members of the former president.
- Antipulpo (Anti-Octopus): A vast embezzlement network involving at least 22 government agencies and numerous former ministers, led by President Danilo Medina’s brother Juan Alexis Medina.
- Coral: A corruption and money laundering network run by high-ranking security officials who stole millions of dollars from the state.
- Medusa: Another case that has shed light on widespread corruption during Medina’s administration.
Experts Say More Needs to Be Done
Experts say that these cases are just the tip of the iceberg and that more needs to be done to root out corruption and dismantle organized crime networks.
- “We come from a culture where certain crimes were largely invisible. Street crimes, robbery, and the like were prosecuted. But corruption? Almost never,” said a judge who wished to remain anonymous.
- “This is a new moment. Anti-corruption prosecutors have more resources now and the people want accountability.”
Abinader’s Commitment to Combating Drug Trafficking and Corruption
Despite these challenges, Abinader’s administration remains committed to combating drug trafficking and corruption. The President has vowed to take on the powerful elite and organized crime networks that have long plagued the country.
A Concerted Effort Required
As the battle against drug trafficking and corruption continues, experts say that it will require a concerted effort from all levels of government, as well as international cooperation, to succeed.