Dozens of Dominicans Allegedly Deceived in Failed Puerto Rico Boat Journey

A group of about 30 people who reportedly paid thousands of Dominican pesos for an illegal boat journey to Puerto Rico instead found themselves back on Dominican soil after spending several days at sea.

According to El Buen Día, the passengers boarded a yola believing they were being transported to Puerto Rico in search of better economic opportunities.

The amount paid reportedly varied considerably. Some passengers allegedly handed over around RD$75,000, approximately US$1,263, while others paid RD$100,000, or about US$1,684. Some reportedly paid as much as RD$250,000, equivalent to roughly US$4,210.

The group reportedly remained at sea for approximately four days under the impression that they were travelling toward Puerto Rico.

At one point, passengers were allegedly shown lights along the coast and told they were approaching their intended destination. They later discovered that the lights were not from Puerto Rico and that they had instead arrived at Boca Orix in Gaspar Hernández, Dominican Republic.

By the time the group reached the beach, they were reportedly exhausted, hungry and dehydrated. Residents in the area discovered the passengers and contacted the Dominican National Police.

The vessel used for the journey was reportedly set on fire after the passengers made it ashore.

Authorities were reportedly unable to immediately identify those responsible for organizing the trip. According to the report, passengers said they did not know the names or places of origin of the individuals behind the operation.

Travelling by yola has long been used by some Dominicans attempting to reach Puerto Rico through irregular migration, despite the significant dangers associated with making the journey by sea.