In Sosúa, Punta Cana and other tourist towns, it is not that obvious. But crime has risen significantly in the Dominican Republic, according to the government and churches. Especially drug trafficking with its by-products seems to be to blame.

President Danilo Medina has taken drastic measures to address these problems. First, there are extra police officers and soldiers sent onto the streets to eliminate the crime. He also ordered strict compliance with the closing times for bars and restaurants. From Thursday, July 7th places where alcoholic beverages are sold should close their doors at midnight. On weekends they should close their doors at 2 AM.

The entire main street (Pedro Clisante) in Sosúa is now in turmoil. Many tourists are deeply disappointed that the Merengue bar, disco D’ Classico, Rumba Bar and Rancho Típico turn off the music at 12 pm and close the bar.

There will be a lot of police in the streets in order to strictly enforce the new regulation. Many bar and restaurant owners feel severely disadvantaged.

There’s been a call for a protest meeting. The president should reconsider the closure regulation for the tourist towns.

Source: Sosua News