BAHAMAS: More Haitian migrants (2) and dead bodies (15) found

#Nassau, February 3, 2019 – Bahamas – Earlier today the Department of Immigration at Marsh Harbour, Abaco confirmed that 2 more Haitian migrants and 15 dead bodies were discovered and believed to be a part of the group from the fatal Haitian vessel found yesterday near Fowl Cay off Man-O-War Cay, Abaco.  This brings the total count to 17 Haitian nationals and 27 deceased persons found.

Immigration Enforcement Unit led by Senior Immigration Officer Vasco Johnson along with the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Royal Bahamas Defence Force and private citizens continued the search and rescue effort this morning which resulted in these findings.

Information coming into the Department suggests that the vessel is believed to have hit a reef in the late hours of 1st February 2019 and subsequently sank. It is alleged that 87 persons were onboard.  A special inquiry into the deaths is expected to take place on Abaco within the week. Search and rescue efforts continue.

Director of Immigration, Mr. Clarence A. Russell along with a team including a Public Relations Press Officer Braddesha Lloyd is expected to travel to Abaco tomorrow for further investigations and to lend support and encourage the Abaco team.

Release: Bahamas Immigration