Vessel Landing Near Bird Rock Area

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 14 November 2024: On November 14th, the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force responded to a suspicious vessel in the Bird Rock area. Upon arrival, 9 illegal migrants were apprehended near the vessel.

Upon further search of the area, the Border Force Enforcement Unit with the use of RTCIPF drone unit located an additional 48 individuals in the nearby vicinity. A total of 57 individuals were apprehended during this operation.

Those apprehended included 45 males inclusive of two minors and 12 females inclusive of two minors all of whom are believed to be Haitian nationals. The vessel is now in the possession of the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force.

We would like to thank the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force and the TCI Regiment for their assistance.

Further details will be released as the investigation progresses.

The public is reminded that harbouring or facilitating the entry of illegal migrants is a serious criminal offense under the Immigration Ordinance, carrying penalties of up to $20,000 in fines and up to four years of imprisonment. Authorities are committed to prosecuting any individuals found violating these laws to the fullest extent.

For any media inquiries, please contact crilightbourne@gov.tc