Nine Cuban migrants were apprehended by the U.S. Border Patrol on Tuesday after arriving in Key West, Florida, on a makeshift raft. The capture was facilitated with the help of local authorities, who assisted in the operation, according to a statement from the agency on X.
The U.S. Border Patrol reports that these migrants will undergo processing and, under current regulations, could potentially face deportation back to Cuba. The plight of Cuban nationals in the U.S. has been a contentious issue in recent years, with a marked increase in maritime arrivals from the island, which has been experiencing its worst exodus since 2021.
"Today, nine Cuban migrants were taken into custody by the Border Patrol after making landfall on a homemade vessel in Key West," stated Jeffrey Dinise, the Border Patrol chief for the area. The U.S. government has upheld its policy of detaining and deporting migrants who attempt to enter the country illegally. However, the ongoing Cuban migration situation remains a persistent challenge for U.S. authorities.
On January 10, the USBP also detained 24 Cubans who tried to enter the U.S. illegally aboard a small boat near Key West, Florida. Additionally, last Thursday, the Coast Guard repatriated 20 rafters and two dogs after intercepting their illegal migration attempt at sea, as part of the Vigilant Sentry operation at the end of 2024.
The Cuban Ministry of the Interior (Minint) noted that this was the second repatriation operation of the year. The first operation of 2024 was conducted by the Bahamas on January 4 when they returned 19 rafters to the island.
Key Questions About Cuban Migration to the U.S.
Why are Cuban migrants facing deportation after reaching the U.S.?
Under current U.S. immigration policies, Cuban migrants who enter the country illegally are subject to detention and possible deportation, as they do not qualify for legal entry or asylum under existing regulations.
What has caused the increase in Cuban migrants arriving by sea?
The significant rise in Cuban migrants arriving by sea is largely due to the severe economic and political conditions in Cuba, prompting many to seek better opportunities and safety in the United States.