REPATRIATION OF ILLEGAL MIGRANTS
The Ministry of Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment Services in collaboration with the Immigration Department, is pleased to announce the successful repatriation of 271 Haitian migrants to Haiti.
The illegal migrants comprising 219 males and 52 females, were all repatriated on Saturday June 6, 2020.
Based on information received from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Marine Branch, confirmed the total of two illegal migrant vessels interceptions with a combined total of 136 and 129 respectively, with a follow up in land operation, which saw the apprehension of a further 6 illegal migrants.
The Enforcement agencies of the Turks and Caicos Islands are again appealing to persons with information concerning planned and landed arrival of illegal person. Additionally, the marine community assistance is required on poachers’ activities and any suspicious movements. You are asked to contact the Police anonymously on 911 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1-800-8477 TIPS.
The Hon Vaden Williams, Minister of Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment Services, in his comments expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to all agencies involved in this successful apprehension and repatriation of these illegal migrants and encouraged them to keep up the great team work as we all do our part in protecting the Borders and residents of the TCI, particularly amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
He further advised that these dangerous voyages are very risky and not worth the loss of life.
Honorable Williams went on to thank the Marine Branch of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, the Enforcement Unit of the Immigration Department, the UK Marines and our partners of the United States Coast Guard, for their assistance in protecting our borders.
The public is reminded that it an offence to harbour or assist illegal persons and that persons found guilty engaging in such activities are liable to a fine of US$20,000 or a term of imprisonment of four years, or both in accordance with the Immigration Ordinance 2018 Revised or any law.
As such, the public is also requested to provide the Police with 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 on either to www.crimestoppers.tc or on Facebook as a fan of Crime Stoppers Turks & Caicos. Crime Stoppers tips are received in the USA.