U.S. Coast Guard intercepts 132 Haitians attempting illegal entry via Florida Keys, repatriates them in swift operation.
Key Takeaways
- 132 Haitians intercepted on an overloaded 30-foot boat southeast of Florida Keys
- Interception executed by Coast Guard cutter Escanaba with air support
- Intercepted individuals received basic humanitarian aid before repatriation
- Part of Operation Vigilant Sentry to prevent illegal maritime entries
- 313 Haitians repatriated since October 1, 2024
Interception Details
The U.S. Coast Guard recently intercepted a vessel carrying 132 Haitians approximately 50 miles southeast of Marathon, Florida. The 30-foot boat, sailing between Cuba and Cay Sal Bank, was found to be dangerously overloaded with passengers attempting to unlawfully enter the United States via the Florida Keys.
The operation was carried out by the Coast Guard cutter Escanaba after receiving notification from aircrews belonging to Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations and Coast Guard Air Station Miami. This coordinated effort demonstrates the effectiveness of multi-agency cooperation in securing U.S. borders.
Apparently, they didn’t get the memo that Trump is president now!
The US Coast Guard intercepted an "overloaded" boat packed with 132 Haitian migrants about 50 miles off the Florida coastline – and shipped them back home on Monday! pic.twitter.com/cgNMyNk2rw
— Lucy (@TheLucyShow1) February 11, 2025
Humanitarian Response and Repatriation
Following the interception, the Coast Guard provided the Haitians with essential humanitarian assistance. This included food, water, shelter, and basic medical care. After processing to determine their origin, the individuals were repatriated in accordance with established protocols.
This recent operation brings the total number of Haitians repatriated by the Coast Guard since October 1, 2024, to 313. The consistent enforcement of maritime laws serves as a deterrent to those considering illegal entry attempts by sea.
Operation Vigilant Sentry
The interception was conducted as part of Operation Vigilant Sentry, a collaborative effort between the U.S. Coast Guard and the Homeland Security Task Force Southeast. This operation aims to ensure safety at sea while preventing illegal maritime entry into the United States and its territories.
The Coast Guard’s strategy not only focuses on border protection but also prioritizes saving lives threatened by dangerous sea voyages. By intercepting overloaded vessels like the one in this recent operation, authorities prevent potential tragedies at sea while upholding U.S. immigration laws.
Sources:
Coast Guard intercepts 132 Haitians on boat south of Florida Keys, sends them back home
