The Regional Harbor Master of Puerto Juárez has confirmed the arrival of at least two vessels carrying Cuban migrants along the shores of Quintana Roo, as detailed by regional captain Pedro Murillo Garay in statements to the Mexican press.
These incidents occurred in recent days: one involved a Cuban couple aboard the vessel, while the other boat carried nine individuals.
All migrants have been turned over to the National Institute of Migration (INM), which will determine their legal status, including potential repatriation.
Insights from the Regional Captain
Murillo Garay emphasized that maritime surveillance is part of the routine operations of the port authority. During these patrols, personnel often encounter vessels carrying individuals without proper migration documentation, as well as abandoned rafts along the coast.
"At least two recent cases have been recorded: one with a couple on board and another with nine people. Most vessels detected are found without crew members," the official stated.
When individuals are found on board, the Harbor Master coordinates with the relevant agencies according to established protocols.
Unverified Reports from Social Media
In addition to the official report, a video shared on social media by the account "Central de noticias mx" revealed the discovery of another vessel at Punta Misota, close to Nichupté Lagoon and Nizuc Bridge, right within Cancun's hotel zone.
In the recording, a reporter's associate describes the situation: "I just passed through the channel and found this boat next to the Cuban boat I told you about. It looks like another Cuban boat."
The associate claimed that several taxis were waiting for the boat's occupants: "They arrived about half an hour ago, and what's shocking is that taxis were already waiting for those on the boat. They got into the taxis and left."
Sources indicated that the boats "entered as far as Nichupté Lagoon, and neither Cancun authorities nor the Navy noticed."
These claims have not been independently verified by any official Mexican authorities.
An Ongoing Migration Route
In recent months, there have been other instances of Cuban migrants arriving on Mexican shores.
In June, ten migrants reached Isla Mujeres after several days at sea; in August, the Mexican Navy discovered a vessel carrying 19 Cubans, including seven minors.
September saw mass departures from Pinar del Río in speedboats heading toward Cancun.
The journey is perilous and often deadly: in August, two young men—Leodannis Sánchez, 17, and Osmaikel, 19—died while attempting to cross from Pinar del Río.
Understanding the Cuban Migrant Situation in Quintana Roo
What is the role of the National Institute of Migration in these cases?
The National Institute of Migration is responsible for determining the legal status of migrants and deciding on actions such as repatriation.
How are maritime patrols conducted in Quintana Roo?
Maritime patrols are routine operations by the port authority, aimed at monitoring vessels for undocumented migrants and finding abandoned rafts along the coastline.
Have similar incidents occurred in the past?
Yes, there have been multiple instances in recent months where Cuban migrants arrived on Mexican shores, often after dangerous journeys at sea.