Coast Guard’s Tactics to Manage Migrant Boats Near Puerto Rico

U.S. Coast Guard intensifies efforts to intercept migrant vessels near Puerto Rico, repatriating dozens and emphasizing the dangers of illegal sea crossings.

At a Glance

Coast Guard repatriated 46 migrants to the Dominican Republic after failed attempt to reach Puerto Rico
Multiple interceptions involved overloaded vessels in the Mona Passage
From October 2023 to January 2024, 811 non-U.S. citizens were interdicted in 24 illegal voyages
Officials warn against dangerous maritime migration, urging legal pathways instead

Increased Interceptions and Repatriations

The U.S. Coast Guard has ramped up its efforts to intercept migrant vessels attempting perilous journeys near Puerto Rico. In a series of recent operations, the Coast Guard has repatriated numerous individuals to the Dominican Republic and handed others over to U.S. Border Patrol authorities. One significant operation resulted in the repatriation of 46 migrants to the Dominican Republic after they were detained while trying to illegally reach Puerto Rico.

Another notable interception occurred when a U.S. Border Patrol aircraft spotted a suspicious vessel 34 miles off the coast of Aguadilla, leading to the detention of 49 migrants. Of these, three were transferred to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents for potential criminal charges. The Coast Guard Cutter Donald Horsley also played a crucial role, repatriating 28 migrants to the Dominican Republic after intercepting an overloaded vessel in the Mona Passage.

#Breaking @USCG returned 47 migrants to Dominican Republic between Thursday and Sunday, following the interdiction of three unlawful migration voyages in Mona Passage waters near Puerto Rico.

— USCGSoutheast (@USCGSoutheast) October 29, 2024

Dangers of Illegal Maritime Migration

Coast Guard officials consistently emphasize the life-threatening risks associated with these illegal voyages. Commander Gerard Wenk highlighted the precarious nature of these trips, stating, “Unlawful irregular migration voyages most often take place aboard grossly overloaded makeshift vessels with no lifesaving equipment.” He further warned, “The vessels are always taking on water and in danger of capsizing, especially during the night. It is very unfortunate that many migrants don’t realize the danger they are in until it is too late. Don’t take to the sea, it could save your life or the life of your loved ones.” – Source

The severity of the situation is underscored by the Coast Guard’s statistics. From October 1, 2023, to January 12, 2024, they intercepted 24 unlawful migration voyages in the Mona Passage alone, involving 811 non-U.S. citizens. These numbers highlight the ongoing challenge faced by maritime law enforcement in managing illegal migration attempts.

Recent Operations and Outcomes

In a series of operations over a single week, Coast Guard cutters intercepted dozens of migrants in three separate incidents off the waters of Puerto Rico. The most recent operation involved a migrant boat spotted off Mona Island, carrying 27 migrants from Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Another interception south of Mona Island resulted in the detention of 23 Dominican Republic nationals, with four taken into custody for prosecution.

“The collective resolve and steadfast dedication of our Coast Guard and partner agencies is key to stopping these unlawful and dangerous ventures is unwavering,” said Cmdr. Matthew Romano, Coast Guard Sector San Juan chief of response. “These voyages are extremely unsafe, most often occurring aboard makeshift and unseaworthy vessels that take on water and have no life saving equipment onboard. By taking to the sea in one of these voyages you will be putting your life and the lives of others at risk. Instead, seek safe and lawful migration pathways.” – Source

These ongoing operations underscore the U.S. Coast Guard’s commitment to managing maritime migration, enhancing safety at sea, and preventing illegal entry into the United States. As authorities continue their vigilant efforts, they strongly encourage individuals to pursue legal migration channels to avoid the severe risks associated with these dangerous sea voyages.