Haitians expelled from San Víctor after farmer's murder

Tensions flared in the Mosquita section of San Víctor, Espaillat province, as community members violently expelled Haitian residents and set fire to their belongings. The drastic action followed the discovery of the body of local farmer José Castillo Bello, found on his property with multiple stab wounds.

Family members of the deceased have pointed to a Haitian man, who previously worked for Castillo Bello, as the primary suspect in the brutal killing. This accusation ignited the community's rage, leading residents to forcibly remove mattresses, furniture, and other possessions from the homes occupied by Haitian nationals. These items were then set ablaze in the street, a stark display of anger and rejection.

The community has issued a clear warning: no Haitian citizens will be permitted to remain in the area. Castillo Bello's body was discovered on Tuesday, August 4, by his wife when she arrived to bring him lunch. The grim scene revealed the farmer's body hidden among palm fronds, bearing numerous wounds inflicted by a sharp weapon.

According to Castillo Bello's relatives, the suspect allegedly followed the farmer after learning he had received payment for a recent avocado harvest. The family believes the motive for the murder was robbery. As of the latest reports, authorities have not officially confirmed the suspect's involvement or announced any arrests in connection with the case.