Haiti - FLASH : New fleet of vehicles in the DR, for dignified transport of deported Haitians
On Monday, April 28, 2025, President Luis Abinader handed over to the Directorate General of Migration (DGM) 58 brand-new vehicles (50 trucks and 8 buses) adapted to ensure dignified and humane treatment during the repatriation of Haitians in irregular migration situations nationwide. This represents an investment of over 8.5 million US dollars (approximately 510 million pesos).
According to Vice Admiral Luis Rafael Lee Ballester, Director General of the DGM, these secure buses, with a capacity of 51 passengers, feature two rows of individual seats around a central aisle. The buses have a reinforced metal rear door, and the windows are protected by a metal grille to prevent occupants from escaping or damaging the vehicle. In addition, the buses are equipped with a security camera. The ceilings of the buses feature several small lights that provide interior lighting. They also have a sanitary system including a toilet, sink, and a mirror.
The secure transport trucks for illegal immigrants have a capacity of 38 people, according to Vice Admiral Luis Lee Ballester. The trucks are equipped with rows of sturdy individual seats. They have two access doors (one at the rear and one on the side). At the rear, there are two seats for immigration officers. Each truck has eight windows with metal security and protective grilles, protecting against any escape attempts. Each truck is equipped with an air conditioner protected by a metal grille.
