Royal Bahamas Defence Force apprehends Migrants

#Bahamas, March 29, 2018 – Nassau – Almost 90 illegal migrants are in custody after their sailing sloop was intercepted by HMBS Cascarilla, under the command of Lieutenant Commander Clinton Johnson during the early hours of this morning.  The vessel loaded with immigrants was detected some 16 NM southwest of Governor’s Harbour.  A fixed wing Coast Guard aircraft, operating out of Miami was helpful in locating the sloop.

These latest migrants will be processed after they are handed over to Immigration authorities.  It is intended that they will appear before the magistrate in Eleuthera before their repatriation to Haiti. Updates will follow.

The Defence Force has increased its monitoring and patrolling efforts in the Southern Bahamas, which is considered a gateway for much of the illegal activity that takes place within our borders.  Migrants are using a variety of means to transit our waters, including traditional sailing sloops, smaller conventional sailing yachts, and motorized go fasts with collapsible sails.  Commander Defence Force, Commodore Tellis Bethel wishes to thank the concerned citizens who continue to report suspicious activities they witness because of the Operation Marlin Spike Drive the force has been using to bridge gaps.

The public is reminded that you can report suspicious activities by calling the Defence Force’s hotline at 3621814 or 424 9414.  For the year, 281 migrants have been apprehended, with two arrests made consecutively near Inagua on March 11, another 69 apprehended off Long Island in January and the over 20 that were arrested after they came ashore in Marshall Road.

The Royal Bahamas Defence Force remains committed to protecting the territorial integrity of The Bahamas and keeping our borders secured.

(For further information please contact the RBDF Public Relations Department or visit our website: www.rbdf.gov.bs, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and view our Youtube channel) rbdf

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