Recently, the Honduran Naval Forces successfully rescued nine Cuban nationals who found themselves adrift near Swan Island in the Caribbean. The group, all men, embarked from Las Coloradas in Cuba's Granma province on December 9, aiming to reach the United States in pursuit of a brighter future, as reported by local media outlet TSiHonduras.
The migrants set out on a vessel named La Niña, equipped with a central motor and sails. However, their journey took a perilous turn when, midway between Swan Island and the Cayman Islands, the boat's motor broke down. Magdiel Torres Escalona, the captain of La Niña, recounted the harrowing experience: "We were halfway between Swan Island and the Cayman Islands when the motor failed. It consumed all the oil and began to malfunction. With only a sail and God's grace, we managed to reach Swan Island."
Upon reaching Swan Island, they were rescued by the Honduran Naval Forces, who provided medical care, food, and shelter. Lieutenant Sierra, head of Public Relations for the Honduran Naval Forces, emphasized the humanitarian efforts of the team: "Our naval personnel transported these Cuban citizens from Swan Island after their propulsion system failed. They were stranded, and our team was able to assist them by offering food, shelter, and medical attention, as much as the area allowed."
The rescue occurred during the Christmas season, giving the rafters the opportunity to share a special meal with the naval officers. "They arrived just before Christmas, and our team shared their Christmas dinner with the Cuban brothers," Lieutenant Sierra added.
The Cubans are now under the jurisdiction of the National Institute of Migration, which will determine the legal procedures. Pairon Cloter, an official from the Institute, stated: "They will be granted entry as per the law and allowed a five-day stay."
In the final weeks of 2024, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of Cuban migrants attempting sea voyages, seeking to reach the United States or neighboring countries, often facing significant risks in makeshift vessels.
On December 18, the U.S. Coast Guard repatriated 43 Cuban rafters intercepted at sea. This operation brought the total number of irregular Cuban migrants returned in 2024 to 1,312, according to Cuba's Ministry of the Interior. Eight days later, on December 26, twelve Cuban migrants, after six days adrift, were rescued by the Mexican Navy and National Guard off the coast of Tulum, Quintana Roo. These individuals, weakened by sun exposure and lack of food, received medical care and were placed under the custody of the National Institute of Migration to determine their legal status.
On December 22, ten Cuban rafters reached the Florida coast on a homemade vessel. Intercepted by the U.S. Border Patrol, they now face deportation proceedings. Meanwhile, on Monday, it was reported that a group of 18 Cuban migrants, including five women and thirteen men, arrived near the Key West International Airport in Florida's Keys on Sunday night. Two of these migrants were taken to the Lower Keys Medical Center due to severe dehydration and numbness in their extremities.
The persistence of these perilous journeys underscores the desperation of many Cubans who, driven by economic hardship and lack of opportunities in their homeland, risk their lives at sea in search of a better future. Authorities in receiving countries continue to strengthen surveillance and repatriation measures, urging migrants to seek legal immigration pathways to prevent tragedies and ensure the safety of all involved.
Key Questions about Cuban Migrant Journeys
Why are so many Cubans attempting dangerous sea journeys?
Many Cubans are driven by the severe economic crisis and lack of opportunities in Cuba, prompting them to risk their lives in search of a better future abroad.
What happens to Cuban migrants after they are rescued at sea?
After rescue, Cuban migrants typically receive medical care, food, and shelter, and are then placed under the custody of immigration authorities to determine their legal status.
How are receiving countries responding to the increase in Cuban migrants?
Receiving countries are enhancing surveillance and repatriation efforts while encouraging migrants to pursue legal immigration routes to prevent tragedies and ensure safety.