U.S. Immigration authorities released several of the 43 Cuban rafters who landed on September 17 in Marathon Key, Florida.
Among the migrants, there were families with children, including a 10-month-old baby, and many were released with electronic shackles and an I-220A form, which allows them to temporarily remain in the country, confirmed Martí Noticias.
The group had left Cuba on a fishing boat that departed from Cojímar and arrived at Sombrero Beach in Marathon Key.
The couple with the baby stated that they decided to take the risk on the journey due to the severe crisis on the island, marked by product shortages and constant blackouts.
"We love Cuba, but there are no opportunities. If I protest, I will go to prison," explained the minor's father.
He said that they initially tried to leave through Nicaragua, but the cancellation of their flight led them to take the risk of a sea voyage.
According to immigration lawyer Willy Allen, many migrants arriving by sea are processed and released under certain conditions, while others are deported.
The International Organization for Migration has reported at least 142 migrants missing or deceased in the Florida Strait so far this year, of which at least 30 were Cuban.
In response to the increase in migratory activities, the Department of Homeland Security has implemented new surveillance measures in South Florida, including the use of the aerostat "Argos 2".
Cuba is facing an unprecedented wave of migration, with 208,308 Cubans arriving in the U.S. in the current fiscal year, according to CBP data.
Thousands of Cubans have been released with document I-220A, and they find themselves in legal limbo because this form does not allow them to benefit from the Cuban Adjustment Act.
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