Key facts
- An overcrowded migrant vessel with 240 people on board was intercepted near the Turks and Caicos Islands.
- The vessel was taking on water and at risk of sinking.
- The operation involved the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations, and the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.
- The migrants claimed Haitian nationality.
- The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force took custody of the vessel and its passengers.
The U.S. Coast Guard, in coordination with U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations and the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, intercepted an overcrowded migrant vessel approximately 15 miles south of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The vessel, carrying 240 individuals who claimed Haitian nationality, was taking on water and at risk of sinking. Authorities received a report of an "unlawful migrant voyage" and responded to prevent a potential maritime disaster. Video footage shows crews assisting in securing and towing the vessel. The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force subsequently took custody of the boat and its passengers. Over 140 personnel were involved in the operation. Lt. Chelsea Garcia of the Coast Guard emphasized the extreme hazards of such journeys, urging migrants to reconsider and pursue safe, legal avenues. The Department of Homeland Security reinforced that illegal entry attempts would be met with apprehension, and CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott highlighted the successful interdiction and praised inter-agency cooperation.