Illegal Migrants Detained After Vessel Interceptions Over the Weekend

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Tuesday, 14 January 2025: On 12th January 2025, the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force responded to an alert by the Marine Branch of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force regarding the interception of an illegal vessel. Onboard were 29 illegal migrants, comprising 23 males, including two minors, and six females, including one minor.

On 13th January, the Border Force responded to another incident involving the interception of an illegal vessel. Upon arrival, 121 illegal migrants were apprehended near the vessel. This group included 103 males, one of whom was a minor, and 17 females.

These individuals are believed to be Haitian nationals and are currently being detained at the detention centre.

We extend our gratitude to the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force and the TCI Regiment for their invaluable 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 offence under the Immigration Ordinance, punishable by fines of up to $20,000 and up to four years of imprisonment.

Authorities are fully committed to prosecuting anyone found in violation of these laws to the fullest extent.

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