In a recent operation, the United States Coast Guard (USCG) returned 27 Cuban migrants to their country of origin, following stopping a makeshift boat 23 miles south of the Dry Tortugas.
The incident occurred Tuesday when a boater alerted USCG Sector Key West watchstanders to a rustic raft carrying a group of people. The crew remained in the area until law enforcement from Station Key West and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations arrived to assist the migrants.
The 27 migrants were later handed over to Cuban authorities on Friday. The USCG stressed that it will continue to patrol the coasts of southern Florida by land, air and sea, with the aim of rescuing and repatriating anyone who attempts to enter the United States illegally.
Lt. Marisa Kraiss, Coast Guard District Seven enforcement officer, said:
“Our top priority is to prevent unnecessary loss of life at sea. These attempts at irregular maritime migration carry great risk.” Kraiss urged migrants not to put their lives at risk and reminded them that there are “safe, orderly and legal pathways to come to the United States.”
The day before, another group of 54 irregular migrants was repatriated to Cuba on a flight that landed at José Martí International Airport. According to the Cuban Ministry of the Interior (MININT), this group was made up of 40 men and 14 women, most of whom had left Cuba legally, but then joined irregular routes to try to reach the US border.
The MININT stressed that these repatriation actions are part of the joint efforts between Cuba and the United States to combat irregular migration and related crimes.
Details of the Operation
Date of Operation: Tuesday
Location: 23 miles south of Dry Tortugas
Number of Migrants: 27
Participating Forces: U.S. Coast Guard (Sector Key West), U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Official Statements: Lt. Marisa Kraiss, Coast Guard District Seven compliance officer.
Previous Repatriation
Date: Day before the Dry Tortugas operation
Number of Migrants: 54
Group composition: 40 men and 14 women
Flight Destination: José Martí International Airport, Cuba
MININT information: Migrants left Cuba legally, but joined irregular routes.
These operations underline the commitment of both nations to manage migration in a safe and legal manner, avoiding unnecessary risks and protecting human lives.
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