Turks and Caicos, March 22, 2025 – Shortly after 10:00 p.m. yesterday (14 March 2025), the United States Air Support (USAS) Unit detected an illegal migrant vessel approximately 15 miles south of Providenciales.
The vessel was reported to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Marine Branch, which deployed two response vessels. In a coordinated effort, the USAS and the Marine Branch successfully intercepted the vessel.
TWO HUNDRED and SEVENTY-SEVEN (277) Haitian migrants were being transported.
The breakdown is as follows: TWO HUNDRED and THIRTY-FOUR (234) males and FORTY-THREE (43) females (including three pregnant women and one minor).
A Royal Bahamas Defence Force vessel conducting patrols under the Shiprider Agreement was diverted to assist in transporting the individuals to Providenciales. The illegals were then handed over to the TCI Border Force, aided by the TCI Regiment, for processing.
This marks yet another successful interdiction reinforcing the commitment of all involved to combat irregular migration. The RT&CIPF takes this opportunity to commend the personnel involved for their dedication to border security and public safety. We are warning individuals facilitating these unlawful activities to desist and strongly advise against persons attempting to enter the TCI illegally. The RT&CIPF remains resolute in deterring and disrupting human smuggling operations while safeguarding our national security.
The RTCIPF asks the public to notify the closest police station, contact 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 to anonymously provide any information on Illegal entry into the TCI.
Additionally, individuals are encouraged to download the Crime Stoppers P3 app to share information anonymously.
