A flight from the Cayman Islands landed in Havana this Friday, carrying 11 Cubans who were deported from the Caribbean territory, according to reports from the Cuban regime's authorities. A Facebook post from the Ministry of the Interior (MININT) revealed that the group comprised nine men and two women who had illegally left the island.
The deported migrants arrived at José Martí International Airport aboard a Cayman Islands aircraft. The MININT reported that upon their return, two of the Cubans were taken into custody. "One was transferred to an investigative body due to alleged involvement in a criminal act prior to leaving the country, and the other was on parole," noted the repressive agency.
This recent deportation adds to a total of 12 in 2025, where 307 individuals have been returned to Cuba from various countries in the region. The forced return of Cubans from the Cayman Islands and other nations delivers a severe blow to those seeking a better life outside of Cuba, bringing them back to a bleak reality in a country engulfed by a severe economic crisis.
Facing deportation means confronting once again the lack of opportunities and a system unable to offer a dignified future. This cycle of migration and return highlights the desperation of those risking everything to flee a life devoid of hope, a stark reflection of the collapse of a model that can no longer sustain even the most basic dreams of its citizens.
In 2024, the Cayman Islands authorities continued systematic deportations of migrants who reached their shores or were intercepted in their waters. On December 28, nine irregular migrants who left Cuba illegally were sent back from the islands. All were men, with most hailing from the province of Ciego de Ávila, as reported by the Ministry of the Interior.
In recent years, numerous Cuban rafters have arrived at this British Overseas Territory, aiming to reach Mexico and continue their journey overland to the U.S. border, where they hope to seek asylum.
FAQs on Cuban Migrant Deportations
Why were two Cuban migrants arrested upon arrival?
One was taken into custody for alleged involvement in a criminal act before leaving Cuba, while the other was on parole.
How many Cubans have been deported from the Cayman Islands in 2025?
In 2025, a total of 307 Cubans have been deported from various countries, including the Cayman Islands.
What challenges do deported Cubans face upon their return?
Deported Cubans face a lack of opportunities and must confront a system incapable of providing a dignified future, reflecting the nation's economic and social struggles.