Dominican Republic will not allow disrespect of its flag

SANTO DOMINGO. The Minister of the Interior and Police, Jose Ramon Fadul, said yesterday that some 20 Haitians have been arrested in Moca and will be sent to the Justice Department, in relation to the burning of the national flag.

In this sense, he warned that no matter whether they are Dominicans or Haitians, the authorities will not permit any disrespect for the national symbols.

He made it clear that this is not a persecution against these foreigners, but rather they are proceeding according to the Law. "Those who desecrate the national flag will be indicted and sent to the Justice Department because it is a patriotic symbol, symbolizing the Dominican Republic and insults will not be tolerated," he emphasized after receiving his new identification and voter registration card.

Fadul said that the investigations into the incident are on-going and that those to blame will be punished.

In a like manner, he announced that everything is ready for the bi-lateral meeting that will be held next Tuesday 6 May with the authorities of neighboring Haiti.

He said that internally they have held meetings with the Dominican commissioners with the aim of polishing details and avoiding any setbacks.