A Chinese migrant's daring attempt to reach the United States by paddling on two stacked paddleboards was thwarted by the U.S. Coast Guard. In a brief post on X, the Coast Guard reported that the Cutter Seahorse intercepted the individual approximately 25 miles off the coast of Freeport, Bahamas.
After being stopped, the migrant was returned to the Bahamas. A silent video released by the USCG showed the migrant seemingly conversing with officers while navigating the waters. The footage also revealed a black trolley suitcase secured to the back of his makeshift vessel.
While the notion of "raft-riding Chinese" might seem unusual, it's not without precedent. In late January, three Cubans were apprehended for facilitating the sea transport of over twenty Asian nationals to Florida’s shores. Lucas Sedeno Rodríguez (52), José Luis Villares (55), and Keiner Cicilia Rodríguez (39) face charges of human trafficking after authorities discovered they brought more than two dozen undocumented immigrants, mainly Chinese, via boat to Florida, where they were found in Coral Gables.
The choice of vessel for this journey is particularly striking, especially given the current political climate. The Trump administration has intensified its crackdown on illegal immigration, leading to increased raids and deportations, making such attempts even more perilous.
Insight on Recent Immigration Attempts
How was the Chinese migrant intercepted?
The Chinese migrant was intercepted by the U.S. Coast Guard's Cutter Seahorse about 25 miles from Freeport, Bahamas, while attempting to paddle to the United States.
What recent cases of similar immigration attempts have occurred?
In January, three Cubans were arrested for transporting over 20 Asian nationals, mostly Chinese, to Florida by sea. They were charged with human trafficking after the immigrants were discovered in Coral Gables.