Haitians arrive on Jamaican shores, returned home

Rashaed Esson

Staff Writer

#Jamaica, September 15, 2023 – Jamaica returned 36 Haitians who arrived via sea in Portland on Saturday September 9th, according to the Ministry of National Security in a release.

In the release, the Ministry informed that upon becoming aware of their arrival, they mobilized through the Jamaica Constabulary Force and Passport Citizenship and Immigration Agency, partnering with the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

They then employed the necessary steps to see that their safety and needs were met.

Immigration checks and security vetting  followed suit resulting in the group being denied entry, the Ministry says, adding that, “from the vetting process, it was found that there were members who had been previously removed from Jamaica for breaches of entry.”

They say they were in talks with the Haitian Governments and arrangements were made with the necessary authorities to ensure that the group was safely returned to the Republic.

This comes after 37 Haitians arrived on the shores of Boston Beach, also in Portland in July, who were given due process after they applied for asylum.

Currently, according to the Government, it continues to aid the 37 Haitians with support from its partners.