Two illegal vessels transporting TWO HUNDRED and EIGHTY-SEVEN (287) irregular migrants were intercepted between April 05th and April 06th, 2024.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (Specialist Tactical Operations) Mat Newton said, “On April 05th, based on information received from the United States Air Asset, THIRTY (30) irregular migrants, along with SIX puppies, were intercepted.
“Onboard the vessel were TWENTY (20) males, TEN (10) females, one of whom is a minor and SIX (6) puppies stored in kennels, one of which was deceased.
“The speedboat and engines, which we now know were stolen from its owners in Providenciales, were intercepted by the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources with the assistance of the TCI Regiment. The RTCIPF Marine Branch also responded and assisted with towing the vessel to shore, where the occupants were handed over to Immigration for processing.
“Yesterday (April 06th), information was received from the United States Air Asset that a suspected sloop near Inagua and South of West Caicos was spotted. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Marine Branch, TCI Regiment, Radar Station and the Immigration Task Force were alerted.
“At 2:23 p.m., the Bahamas Defense Coast Guard intercepted the illegal vessel in Inagua, which was transporting TWO HUNDRED and FIFTY-SEVEN (257) irregular migrants: TWO HUNDRED and EIGHTEEN (218) males and THIRTY-NINE (39) females.”
ACP Newton added, “The illegal transportation of both people and animals underlines the need for comprehensive approaches to address smuggling and trafficking across borders. Swift action and stringent enforcement measures are essential to deter such activities and ensure the safety and integrity of our borders.
“I would like to thank local, regional, and international partners who demonstrated over the weekend that we can successfully disrupt illegal crossings by working together. Irregular migrants are being transported via stolen boats alongside animals. Combating this illicit trade requires enhanced vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies and the public. I
have repeatedly stated that information gathered from the public is essential and invaluable for our investigations. Your information assists us in preventing illegal activities.”
The RTCIPF asks the public to notify the closest police station, contact 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, and anonymously give any information on illegal activity.
Additionally, persons are encouraged to download the CrimeStoppers P3 app and share information.