This Wednesday, the U.S. Coast Guard repatriated 43 Cuban rafters who had been caught while attempting to cross the ocean. According to a statement from the Cuban Ministry of the Interior, these individuals were part of two separate unauthorized maritime departures before being intercepted by U.S. authorities.
So far in 2024, a total of 90 repatriation operations have been conducted from regional countries, resulting in the return of 1,312 irregular migrants to Cuba. Recently, eight Cuban rafters were rescued by an oil tanker after their vessel capsized near the Cayman Islands in late November, as reported by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
In addition, numerous Cuban rafters have been returned from the Bahamas. However, the majority of intercepted Cubans aim for the southern coast of Florida, where most of them are eventually sent back.
Key Facts about Cuban Migrant Interceptions
Why were the Cuban rafters repatriated?
The Cuban rafters were repatriated because they were intercepted during unauthorized maritime departures by the U.S. Coast Guard.
How many Cuban migrants have been returned in 2024?
As of now, 1,312 Cuban migrants have been returned in 2024 through 90 repatriation operations from regional countries.
What is the primary destination for Cuban rafters?
The primary destination for Cuban rafters is the southern coast of Florida, although many are intercepted and returned.