According to the latest official report, 30,799 Haitians were arrested and deported in February 2026 alone. This follows a high-intensity January, bringing the two-month total to 67,940 individuals returned to Haiti via official border crossing points.
A Coordinated “Iron Fist” Strategy
The DGM clarified that these figures are the result of a nationwide “Migration Control Operation.” Unlike standard patrols, these sweeps are characterized by high-level inter-agency cooperation:
The DGM: Leading the administrative and legal processing.
The Dominican Armed Forces: Providing perimeter security and logistical support in border regions.
The National Police: Executing urban sweeps in provinces with high concentrations of migrant labor.
Human Rights and Regulatory Compliance
As the volume of deportations reaches record highs, the DGM has moved to preempt international criticism. In its official statement, the agency reiterated that all operations are conducted:
In accordance with national law: Adhering strictly to current immigration regulations.
Under established protocols: Following standardized procedures for detention and transport.
With human rights protections: Asserting that the rights of those detained are “guaranteed” throughout the process until they reach the Haitian border.
The Regional Context
This surge comes at a time of extreme volatility in Haiti, where gang violence and political instability have pushed thousands to seek refuge across the border. For the Dominican government, the intensified controls are framed as a matter of national security and territorial sovereignty.
By the Numbers: 2026 Deportation Trend
January 2026: ~37,141 deportations
February 2026: 30,799 deportations
Total (YTD): 67,940 deportations
What’s Next?
The DGM has signaled that there will be no let-up in these operations. On the contrary, the agency has vowed to “continue and reinforce” immigration checks across the entire national territory. This suggests that the spring of 2026 could see even higher numbers as the Dominican Republic maintains its hardline stance on irregular migration.
