At Least 4 Dead, 20 Missing After Boat Sinks Near Dominican Republic

Four refugees and migrants died and around 20 are missing after their boat capsized off the Dominican Republic while attempting to reach Puerto Rico. The vessel, carrying about 40 people, was headed for the U.S. territory when it sank. Seventeen survivors, including a child, were rescued—10 Dominicans and 7 Haitians. The boat, a typical unsafe “yola” used for such crossings, lacked proper safety standards. Migrants often pay up to $7,000 for the dangerous journey. Illegal migration from the Dominican Republic to Puerto Rico has increased over the past decade, with Mona Island frequently used as a route by human smugglers.