The United States Coast Guard (USCG) conducted a rescue operation on Thursday, saving seven Cuban rafters who were stranded on Anguilla Cay in the Bahamas during their attempt to reach the Florida coast in a small, makeshift vessel. Authorities reported that the Cuban migrants were discovered on the uninhabited islet southeast of Cay Sal Bank and were subsequently transported by the Coast Guard to the Bahamas.
The government agency did not provide further details regarding the rescue's circumstances or any information about the group’s composition, who are now under the custody of Bahamian authorities. The USCG, in a post on the social media platform X, described the incident as an “illegal maritime migration attempt” and strongly urged the use of legal immigration channels.
Historically, Anguilla Cay and its surrounding areas have been sites of shipwrecks, temporary stays, and rescues for Cubans attempting to reach Florida shores. This area consists of a series of uninhabited, swampy islets covered with shrubs and palm trees, located about 30 miles north of central Cuba's coastline. Given that Anguilla Cay is part of the Bahamas, the U.S. Coast Guard transports Cuban migrants there instead of processing them for return to Cuba.
In the past two weeks, U.S. Coast Guard officials have transferred several rafters to the Bahamas after intercepting multiple attempts at irregular migration. Towards the end of November, the U.S. government reaffirmed its strict stance on immigration laws. A social media message from the U.S. Embassy in Havana warned individuals attempting to enter the country illegally that they would be swiftly expelled if caught crossing between ports of entry.
Recently, a group of 24 Cuban migrants, including one woman, was returned to the island, marking the twentieth deportation flight since the Biden administration resumed them in April 2023. Despite the restrictions, deportations, and inherent dangers of such journeys, Cubans persist in setting out to sea or crossing land borders in hopes of reaching and settling in the United States.
A recent shipwreck involving a vessel departing from the island in late November resulted in the deaths of several young Cubans. Four of the deceased, identified as residents of Niquero municipality in Granma province, were among the casualties. Days before, the news outlet elToque reported a shipwreck allegedly causing the deaths of 24 Cuban migrants following a collision between a speedboat and another vessel. Only two of the deceased have been identified.
It remains unclear whether these incidents are related or separate occurrences amidst the ongoing, unprecedented Cuban exodus to the United States.
Understanding Cuban Migration Challenges
What prompted the U.S. Coast Guard to rescue the Cuban migrants?
The U.S. Coast Guard rescued the Cuban migrants after they were found stranded on Anguilla Cay, Bahamas, as they attempted to reach Florida in a small, inadequate vessel.
Why are Cuban migrants frequently found near Anguilla Cay?
Anguilla Cay is a common site for Cuban migrants due to its proximity to the Florida coast, making it a frequent stopover during their migration attempts, despite the risks associated with its uninhabited and swampy terrain.
What is the U.S. government's stance on illegal immigration?
The U.S. government maintains a strict policy against illegal immigration, emphasizing the use of legal immigration channels and warning of swift expulsions for those who enter illegally.
How has the situation affected Cuba-U.S. deportation policies?
Since April 2023, the Biden administration has resumed deportation flights to Cuba, reinforcing their firm stance on handling illegal migration and processing deportations efficiently.