Border Force Apprehended 212 Illegal Migrants During Vessel Interceptions and Landing  

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Tuesday, 3 September 2024:  During the weekend of 17^th – 19^th August  2024, TCI Border Force apprehended 212 illegal migrants following the interception of four (4) vessels by the Marine Branch and one (1) landing. The apprehended migrants, who were of Haitian and Jamaican nationality, were taken into custody and transported to the detention centre for processing. The successful interceptions have provided valuable intelligence to aid ongoing investigations into human smuggling networks operating in the Turks and Caicos Islands and neighbouring countries.

Illegal immigration poses a severe threat to the Turks and Caicos Islands, including the potential for increased crime, strain on public resources, and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. By preventing clandestine entry, the TCI Border Force plays a crucial role in protecting the integrity of the nation’s immigration system and ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.

In addition to the human smuggling aspect, a large quantity of cannabis was uncovered and seized. The TCI Border Force strongly warns individuals against entering the Turks and Caicos Islands illegally or importing controlled substances. Under the Customs Ordinance, individuals convicted of drug smuggling face significant penalties, including imprisonment for up to 2 years and/or a fine of up to $50,000 and the seizure of property.

The public is also reminded of the severe penalties associated with harbouring illegal migrants or facilitating their entry into the Turks and Caicos Islands under the Immigration Ordinance. Those found guilty of these offences face fines of up to $20,000 and imprisonment for up to four years.

These interceptions were part of a series of recent enforcement actions conducted by TCI Border Force in collaboration with RTCIPF, TCI Regiment, and our international law enforcement partners. These efforts demonstrate the TCI Border Force’s ongoing commitment to combating illegal immigration and the trafficking of controlled substances.

Commenting on the events, the Minister of Immigration and Border Services, Honourable Arlington Musgrove, stated, “We commend the efforts of the TCI Border Force along with RTCIPF, TCI Regiment, and our international law enforcement partners, namely the Royal Bahamas Defence Force and the US Coast Guard’s involvement in these crucial operations. This joint law enforcement activity demonstrates the importance of securing our borders and keeping our communities safe”. “This successful operation is a clear reminder that illegal activities that threaten the peace and security of our islands will not be tolerated. Due to the hard work and vigilance of my officers, there will be 212 less illegal immigrants roaming the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Honourable Musgrove further emphasised that the TCI Border Force’s dominance is a cornerstone of the nation’s defence: “Our strength as a nation depends on the vigilance and superiority of the TCI Border Force, whose proactive approach continues to safeguard our people. We will not relent to defend our shores from those seeking to breach our laws.”

The Director General, Emilio Seymour, would like to commend Border Force officers for their professionalism and dedication to duty. Their actions have demonstrated our vision of “Safeguarding our Borders and the Nation’s Prosperity.”