Leaks and makeshift tarpaulins: this is how they dealt with leaks at Jet Set, according to a witness

Santo Domingo.– The structural conditions of the Jet Set nightclub were a recurring cause for concern, according to the testimony of Manuel Jiménez Mateo, an employee of RCC Media and a regular collaborator at the entertainment center, who was questioned by the Public Ministry as part of the investigation into the collapse of the roof that left more than 200 fatalities and dozens injured. Jiménez Mateo stated that, approximately every 15 days, leaks were reported in the premises, mainly affecting the ceilings.

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“When it rained, a lot of water accumulated in the air conditioning units, and the carpets got soaked,” he explained, detailing that this situation forced the staff to place tarpaulins to prevent the water from falling directly on the customers.

According to the testimony, these improvised measures were ordered directly by Antonio Espaillat, the owner of the establishment. “That was done on the instructions of Don Antonio Espaillat, so that the water wouldn’t fall on the people,” indicated the employee, referring to the use of the tarpaulins as a temporary barrier. Jiménez also stated that the air duct was always humid, which contributed to the progressive deterioration of the interior infrastructure. In his duties, he was in charge of identifying operational problems in the establishment, proposing solutions or contacting the corresponding technical personnel, in addition to maintaining direct communication with the owner. The testimony is part of the file being analyzed by the Public Prosecutor’s Office and which points to alleged negligence in the maintenance of the premises, as well as irregularities in obtaining and renewing operating permits.