Authorities in the Dominican Republic have seized 228 packages of suspected cocaine in two operations at the Port of Don Diego and Punta Cana International Airport, arresting two men in in the process.

The National Directorate of Drug Control (DNCD) said the operations involved prosecutors, national intelligence agencies, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Office of International Anti-Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).

In the first operation, agents intercepted a container trailer at the Port of Don Diego after receiving intelligence reports and noticing irregularities in its structure.

A specialised team worked for more than 10 hours using saws, drills and other equipment to extract 203 packages of suspected cocaine concealed in a double-bottom compartment at the rear of the trailer.

One man was arrested and is expected to appear in court.

Authorities also seized a vehicle, two mobile phones and cash, while the trailer and container remain under official control as investigations continue.

In a separate operation at Punta Cana International Airport, authorities arrested a 34-year-old Dutch national who was preparing to board a commercial flight to Paris, France.

DNCD said a scan of his luggage returned suspicious images.

A more detailed inspection uncovered 25 packages of suspected cocaine wrapped in adhesive tape and bearing different logos.

An investigation continues to identify other people who may be linked to the suspected international trafficking networks.

The 228 packages were sent to the National Institute of Forensic Sciences (INACIF) to determine the substances’ exact type and weight.