$2M Marijuana Bust; 56 Migrants Held

Bags containing marijuana seized by the police

 In a significant operation over the weekend, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) seized over $2 million worth of Cannabis sativa and detained a total of 56 illegal migrants during two separate interceptions.

According to Police reports, at around 11:40 pm, on Friday, August 18, police officers responded to a report of an illegal migrant landing at Bird Rock, Providenciales. Fifteen illegal migrants were apprehended at the scene. During a search of the surrounding area, officers discovered cannabis sativa with an estimated street value of $131,660.

On Saturday, August 17th, in a subsequent operation the next day, officers from the Marine Unit of the RTCIPF were alerted to suspicious activity near Jones Cay. Upon arrival, they intercepted two vessels carrying a total of 41 illegal migrants, including 32 males, 6 females, and 3 minors. Alongside the migrants, officers seized a substantial quantity of cannabis sativa valued at $2,704,932.

One of the boats ferrying undocumented migrants apprehended by thepolice

The RTCIPF expressed gratitude to the Border Force, TCI Regiment, and local citizens who contributed to the successful interception of the vessels. The police are continuing their investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible for the smuggling operation.

Commissioner of Police Edvin Martin highlighted the dangers faced by illegal migrants during their perilous journey to the Turks and Caicos Islands and emphasized the severe penalties associated with drug trafficking. He reaffirmed the commitment of the RTCIPF and its law enforcement partners to pursue all leads and bring those involved to justice.

Anyone with information that could assist in these investigations is urged to contact the RTCIPF via the nearest police station, 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477. Information can also be provided anonymously through the Crime Stoppers P3 app.