U.S. Coast Guard intercepts 132 Haitians in an overcrowded boat off Florida Keys, repatriating them to Haiti in a display of maritime border enforcement.
Quick Takes
- Coast Guard cutter Escanaba intercepted a 30-foot vessel carrying 132 Haitians 50 miles southeast of Marathon, Florida.
- Interception resulted from collaboration between Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection air surveillance.
- Migrants received basic assistance before being repatriated to Haiti.
- Since October 1, 2024, the Coast Guard has repatriated 313 Haitians.
- Operation highlights U.S. commitment to preventing illegal maritime entries and ensuring sea safety.
Interception of Overloaded Vessel
In a recent maritime operation, the U.S. Coast Guard intercepted a vessel carrying 132 Haitians attempting an illegal crossing to the Florida Keys. The 30-foot boat, dangerously overloaded with passengers, was detected approximately 50 miles southeast of Marathon, Florida. The vessel was navigating the waters between Cuba and Cay Sal Bank when it was spotted by surveillance aircraft.
The interception was carried out by the Coast Guard cutter Escanaba, which responded promptly to notifications from aircrews of Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations and Coast Guard Air Station Miami. This coordinated effort demonstrates the effective collaboration between different agencies in safeguarding U.S. maritime borders.
Apparently, they didn’t get the memo that Trump is president now!
The US Coast Guard intercepted an "overloaded" boat packed with 132 Haitian migrants about 50 miles off the Florida coastline – and shipped them back home on Monday! pic.twitter.com/cgNMyNk2rw
— Lucy (@TheLucyShow1) February 11, 2025
Rescue and Repatriation Process
Following standard rescue procedures, the 132 Haitians were transferred to Coast Guard vessels where they underwent initial processing to determine their origin. The migrants were provided with essential humanitarian assistance, including food, water, shelter, and basic medical care. This approach aligns with the Coast Guard’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of those intercepted at sea, even as they enforce maritime laws.
After receiving necessary care, all 132 individuals were repatriated to Haiti. This action is part of the Coast Guard’s ongoing efforts to maintain border security and deter dangerous sea crossings. Since October 1, 2024, the Coast Guard has repatriated a total of 313 Haitians, underscoring the persistent challenge of illegal maritime migration attempts.
Operation Vigilant Sentry and Maritime Security
The successful interception and repatriation mission is part of Operation Vigilant Sentry, a collaborative effort between the Coast Guard and the Homeland Security Task Force – Southeast. This operation plays a crucial role in preventing illegal sea entries and ensuring the safety of maritime routes.
The Coast Guard’s actions serve as a deterrent to those considering illegal maritime entry into the United States. By consistently intercepting and repatriating individuals attempting unlawful crossings, the Coast Guard reinforces the message that such attempts are not only dangerous but also futile. This approach aims to discourage future attempts and potentially save lives by preventing hazardous sea journeys in overcrowded and ill-equipped vessels.
Sources:
Coast Guard intercepts 132 Haitians on boat south of Florida Keys, sends them back home
