Seven Dominican Nationals Arrested During Joint Maritime Enforcement Operation at Sea

On Sunday, July 5, 2026, seven Dominican Republic nationals were detained and their vessel seized following a coordinated multi-agency maritime operation targeting suspected illegal fishing activity within the territorial waters of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Photo Courtesy: Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force

Acting swiftly on information received from international partners, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) activated a coordinated response involving the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment, Border Force, and the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR).

As a result of the operation, responding agencies successfully intercepted and detained two vessels. During the operation, officers recovered a quantity of suspected illegally harvested marine products. Seven adult males, all nationals of the Dominican Republic, were arrested on suspicion of poaching and related offences under the Fisheries Protection legislation.

The investigation remains ongoing as officers of the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) continue enquiries into the incident and work closely with partner agencies to determine the full extent of the suspected offences.

Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Kendall Grant commended the professionalism and collaboration demonstrated by all agencies involved in the operation, stating:

"This successful operation underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and the importance of strong partnerships in safeguarding the territorial waters and natural resources of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Illegal fishing and poaching pose a significant threat to our marine biodiversity, economy, and the livelihoods of those who depend on these resources. We remain committed to working alongside our local, regional, and international partners to protect our maritime environment and ensure those responsible are held accountable."

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, together with its law enforcement and regulatory partners, remains resolute in identifying and disrupting those who seek to exploit the maritime environment.

The RT&CIPF wishes to remind the public that the protection of the Turks and Caicos Islands' marine resources remains a national priority. The Force will continue to work alongside local, regional, and international partners to combat illegal fishing, safeguard the country's maritime borders, and collaborate to bring offenders before the courts.

Anyone with information relating to illegal fishing, poaching, or other maritime criminal activity is encouraged to contact the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force by calling 911, the nearest Police Station, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477.