The US Coast Guard crews repatriated and transferred 77 people to Cuba and the Bahamas over seven days, with these encounters coming from five separate voyages, originating from Cuba or the Bahamas.
In a statement on Thursday May 25, the Coast Guard said that Homeland Security Task Force – Southeast partners will continue to be present in the air and on the waters to detect and deter migrants from attempting to unlawfully enter the U.S. via the maritime domain.
A Coast Guard Air Station Miami HC-144 Ocean Sentry law enforcement air crew alerted Coast Guard Sector Key West watchstanders of a rustic vessel about 10 miles south of Key West, Florida, May 7, 2022.
The people were repatriated May 13, 2022.
Lt. Matt Miller, District Seven response law enforcement officer cautioned individuals from venturing on illegal voyages.
“Don’t take to the sea, as it’s a dangerous voyage and you could lose your life,” he said. “Our maritime borders are closed for unlawful entry to the U.S. If you attempt it, it will result in your disqualification for the Cuba and Haiti parole process.”
Since October 1, 2022, Coast Guard crews interdicted or encountered 6,701 Cubans and 4,512 Haitian migrants. Once aboard a Coast Guard cutter, all migrants receive food, water, shelter and basic medical attention.