The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Marine Branch intercepted an illegal vessel carrying 95 irregular migrants in the waters of the Turks and Caicos Islands on Tuesday, March 19, 2024.
According to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, the operation, which involved multiple partner agencies including the Border Force, TCI Regiment, Fisheries Maritime Resource Management, Immigration, and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (HMBS Bahamas), successfully halted the vessel's progress.
According to Marine Commander Assistant Superintendent of Police Everet Warrican, the interception occurred after receiving information about an illegal sloop approximately 28 nautical miles south of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Upon interception, 82 males and 13 females were transferred to the Immigration Task Force for processing around 6:15 p.m.
ASP Warrican emphasized the inherent dangers associated with illegal migration, particularly by sea. He highlighted the risks not only to the individuals undertaking the journey but also to the law enforcement officers involved in escorting them to land.
Furthermore, he underscored the broader implications of illegal migration, including its facilitation of criminal networks, exploitation of vulnerable individuals, and threats to border integrity.
Expressing the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force's (RTCIPF) zero-tolerance stance on illegal migration, ASP Warrican asserted that those involved in facilitating or supporting such activities would face legal consequences. He urged community cooperation in reporting any information related to illegal migration, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in ensuring community safety and well-being.
The RTCIPF encouraged individuals with relevant information to assist in the investigation by contacting the nearest police station, dialing 911, reaching out to the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or utilizing Crime Stoppers channels, including the hotline at 1-800-8477.
Additionally, the public was encouraged to use the CrimeStoppers P3 app to anonymously share information on illegal activities.
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