Contraband grows and sales slip

[NewsWhore]

During the past few months, the volume of contraband has increased along the border near Dajabon in the northwest corner of the Dominican Republic, next door to Haiti. According to local deputy Carmen Mirelys Uceta, criminal activity has also increased at the same time that legal commerce has decreased. The Congress member told Hoy reporter Adalberto de la Rosa that the growing unemployment in the area is the principal issue for local residents. Without industries or factories, there are few legal avenues for people to feed and clothe themselves. According to the PRSC legislator, ever since Haiti halted Dominican poultry and egg imports, the situation has deteriorated. Currently the cattle industry is the only viable occupation but that absorbs little manpower, and is itself subject to rustling and contraband, despite the presence of the Specialized Frontier Corps (CESFRONT). Both Dominicans and Haitians are involved in the rustling operations, according to local sources. The result of all the contraband is reflected in a decrease in sales at the bi-national market in Dajabon and a reduction in activity among 1,500 motorcycle taxi drivers.

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