The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) repatriated 41 Cuban migrants this Friday following multiple interceptions at sea as part of Operation Vigilant Sentry. The interdictions began when an aerial team from Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations alerted the Coast Guard watchstanders in Sector Key West about a migrant vessel on August 16, located approximately 39 miles south of Key West, according to a statement from the agency.
On Monday, another report indicated a vessel was found eight miles southeast of Port Everglades; and on Tuesday, another aerial team from Customs and Border Protection reported a migrant vessel approximately 58 miles south of Marathon.
The USCG emphasized that they "work day and night to disrupt and intercept illegal migration attempts like these," reiterating that migrants detained at sea will be repatriated.
Lieutenant Jesús Martínez Borges, enforcement officer of the Coast Guard's Seventh District, explained that they collaborate with partners from HSTF-SE, such as Customs and Border Protection, to enhance their capabilities to detect and deter migrants from the deadly risks of illegal maritime migration.
This Friday, it was revealed that a vessel found on Monday in Port Everglades was occupied by five Cuban migrants who had spent seven days adrift at sea. Upon their arrival, the five Cubans received medical attention due to their state of dehydration and exhaustion, common symptoms in individuals exposed to the harsh conditions of the sea for extended periods.
Despite warnings and the risk of deportation, Cuban attempts to reach the United States or Mexico by sea continue in the context of the ongoing Cuban migration crisis.
FAQs on Recent Repatriation of Cuban Migrants by the U.S. Coast Guard
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the recent repatriation of Cuban migrants by the U.S. Coast Guard.
What is Operation Vigilant Sentry?
Operation Vigilant Sentry is a U.S. initiative aimed at disrupting and intercepting illegal maritime migration attempts.
How does the U.S. Coast Guard detect migrant vessels?
The U.S. Coast Guard works with partners such as Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations to detect migrant vessels using aerial surveillance and other means.
What happens to migrants intercepted at sea?
Migrants intercepted at sea are typically repatriated to their home country, in this case, Cuba.
Why do Cuban migrants continue to attempt reaching the U.S. despite the risks?
Many Cuban migrants attempt to reach the U.S. due to the ongoing economic and political crisis in Cuba, despite the significant risks and the threat of deportation.