The United States Border Patrol (USBP) apprehended 24 Cuban nationals attempting to illegally enter the country aboard a small vessel near Key West, Florida. This interception occurred last Monday after USBP agents responded to a call from the Coast Guard, which had alerted them to a possible human smuggling operation in nearby waters, the entity reported this Friday.
The agents found the migrants crammed into the boat under precarious conditions. Jason Owens, the chief of the Border Patrol, stated in a press release that this operation is part of "coordinated actions" that are crucial for safeguarding our waters and saving lives. Owens emphasized the dangers associated with voyages on small boats, which are often overloaded and ill-equipped for the journey’s demands, thereby endangering the migrants' lives.
This incident marks the latest in a series of apprehensions of Cuban rafters attempting to reach Florida’s shores in search of asylum or a better life. On Thursday, the US Coast Guard repatriated 20 Cuban migrants and two dogs after intercepting their illegal migration attempt at sea, as part of Operation Vigilant Sentry towards the end of 2024.
Cuba's Ministry of the Interior (Minint) confirmed that the return of the migrants occurred this Thursday through the port of Orozco, in Bahía Honda, Artemisa.
Understanding the Cuban Migrant Situation
Why are Cuban migrants attempting to reach Florida?
Many Cuban migrants seek to reach Florida in search of asylum or a better life due to economic hardships and political repression in Cuba.
What are the risks of crossing on small boats?
Crossing on small boats is risky because they are often overcrowded and not designed to handle the demands of the journey, posing significant danger to the migrants' lives.
What is Operation Vigilant Sentry?
Operation Vigilant Sentry is a coordinated effort by the US Coast Guard to intercept and prevent illegal migration attempts at sea, particularly from Cuban nationals.