MINISTRY OF IMMIGRATION, CITIZENSHIP, LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT

GRAND TURK

TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

WEST INDIES

TEL: 649-338 2921                                                                           

FAX: 649-946-2924

EMAIL: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PRESS RELEASE

SUCCESFUL INTERCEPTION of an illegal migrant vessel

Cockburn Town, Grand Turk; The Ministry of Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment Services’ Immigration Department is pleased to announce the successful interception of an illegal migrant vessel in bound for the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI).  On Sunday, 17 January 2021, at approximated 10:41 pm, the Immigration Department responded to a call from 911 informing that the Police Marine Division had intercepted a migrant vessel in Turks and Caicos Islands waters.

The vessel was tugged to South Dock, Providenciales, by the Police Marine Branch and persons were handed over to the Immigration Department Enforcement Unit and Environmental Health official for immediate assessment.

A total of twenty-three (23) illegal migrants were intercepted, which included fifteen (15) males and eight (8) females, all of which were Haitian nationals. 

All detainees will be repatriated shortly after all processes are completed.

Similarly, on Friday, 15 January 2021, there was a rescue operation to save the lives of one hundred and fifty-nine (159) illegal migrants onboard a damaged vessel off the coast of Providenciales. A joint operation spearheaded by the RT&C Police Force, DECR and private citizens rescued all the illegal migrant which include one hundred and thirty-nine (139) males and twenty-four (24) females. The illegal migrants were subsequently processes and repatriated on Saturday, 16^th January 2021 and Sunday, 17^th January 2021.

In commenting on this successful interception, Hon Vaden Delroy Williams said; “This vessel is the second interception within three (3) days, which is very alarming. We are very thankful for all organizations involved in the two interception. Travelling here illegally is a wasted time, as our border protection team is very strong and you will be caught and you will be sent back to your home land.  Do not risk all you have to travel here.”

The public is reminded to continue to provide tips or any information related to this or any other illegal landing. We encourage the public to submit information or tips anonymously in English, French or Spanish to www.crimestoppers.tc or on Facebook as a fan of Crime Stoppers Turks & Caicos. Kindly note that Crime Stoppers tips are received in the USA.

END