#TurksandCaicos, May 11, 2024 – The forfeiture of the vessel Marassa Express, valued at approximately $120,000.00, has been secured following a recent court decision. The vessel’s forfeiture comes as a result of a meticulously coordinated effort involving the Immigration Department, Customs Department, Royal Turks and Caicos Islands, the Office of the Department of Public Prosecution and the legal representation of The Crown by Dr. Angela Brooks.
The case stems from an intelligence-led operation conducted on West Caicos on 5th February 2023, where 90 migrants were encountered. Following the operation, The Crown successfully prosecuted the defendants, Alexis Georgis and Meralien Merlien, in the Magistrate court.
The defendants were convicted of various charges related to unlawful entry and failure to report to the proper officer. Alexis Georgis was fined $9,500 payable in 14 days or 18 months imprisonment, as well as $3,500 payable in 14 days or three months imprisonment. Meralien Merlien was fined $9,000 payable in 14 days or 16 months imprisonment.
The appeal, heard last week and decided on April 30th, 2024, saw the court dismissing the appeal and confirming the sentences imposed on the defendants.
Arlington Musgrove; Minister of Immigration and Border Services stated, “The forfeiture of the Marassa Express is not just a legal victory; it is a powerful statement of our unwavering commitment to safeguarding our borders and ensuring the integrity of our immigration laws. This outcome sends a clear message to those who seek to exploit our borders unlawfully: there will be consequences, and we will pursue justice relentlessly.”
This successful outcome underscores the effective collaboration between various departments within the Turks and Caicos Islands authorities, highlighting their commitment to upholding immigration and customs laws, as well as ensuring the safety and security of the Turks and Caicos Islands.