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Closure of DEA Office in Dominican Republic Amid Corruption Scandal Raises Concerns

KVIA•Friday, February 13, 2026 at 11:56 PM•CNN Newsource

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The U.S. has closed its DEA office in the Dominican Republic following the arrest of a senior agent, Meliton Cordero, accused of running a visa fraud scheme. This unusual decision was announced by U.S. Ambassador Leah F. Campos, who emphasized the importance of integrity within the embassy. Cordero, who has been with the embassy for six years, allegedly accepted thousands of dollars to expedite visa applications for foreign nationals, with at least one case being fraudulent. The closure may hinder U.S. anti-narcotics efforts in the Caribbean, a region critical for drug trafficking routes. The embassy reassured that cooperation with Dominican authorities will continue despite the internal investigation.

Key Details: • Meliton Cordero arrested for conspiracy and visa fraud. • DEA office closure announced by U.S. Ambassador Leah F. Campos. • Cordero allegedly expedited at least 119 visa applications. • Closure aims to facilitate an internal investigation. • U.S. continues to prioritize anti-narcotics efforts in the region.

drug-trafficking corruption dea dominican-republic visa-fraud

People & Organizations

Department of JusticeDominican RepublicDEAU.S. EmbassySanto DomingoLeah F. CamposMeliton Cordero

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