TCI BORDER FORCE INTENSIFIES EFFORTS TO DISMANTLE CRIMINAL NETWORKS

PRESS RELEASE 

 FROM THE MINISTRY OF IMMIGRATION

AND BORDER SERVICES

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands 26^th September 2024– The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force is taking a multi-pronged approach to combat organised immigration crime, launching the “Safer Borders, Safer Communities” campaign alongside active intelligence gathering and enforcement operations.

This initiative prioritises both enhancing border security and reducing the illegal migrant population. Public awareness and community collaboration are essential components of the campaign. A well-attended kick-off event in North Caicos on September 17^th, demonstrated the public’s enthusiasm for working alongside Border Force. Residents are encouraged to participate in ongoing community events and report suspicious activities as grassroots intelligence plays a crucial role in identifying organised crime operations.

Border Force is actively gathering intelligence to identify individuals and vessels involved in illegal immigration. A recent example is the ongoing investigation into the 44 migrants detained following the interception of a vessel near Ambergris Cay on 23^rd September 2024 by the RTCIPF, TCI Regiment, with Border Force assistance.

The public is reminded that harbouring or facilitating the illegal entry of migrants is a crime punishable by fines up to $20,000 and imprisonment for up to four years under the Immigration Ordinance.

Reporting suspicious activity in TCI waters is crucial. Residents can report to TCIintel@gov.tc, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s tipline (866-347-2423), or online at https://www.ice.gov/tipline.

 By working together, Border Force and the community can safeguard the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands and ensure its continued prosperity.