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After six days adrift at sea, 12 Cuban migrants, including two women and ten men, were rescued by members of the Navy and the National Guard of Mexico on the shores of Tulum, Quintana Roo.
According to the Facebook page of the site Semanario Línea Roja, the precarious vessel they were traveling on reached the shore around 11:23 a.m., based on information provided by the authorities.
The crew members, visibly weakened by prolonged sun exposure and lack of food, received first aid and were rehydrated by security personnel.
Subsequently, with the support of the Municipal Police, they were taken to the facilities of the Secretaría de Seguridad Pública to undergo a thorough medical evaluation.
Meanwhile, the National Migration Institute (INM) has taken over the coordination of actions to assess the legal status of the rescued migrants.
According to official sources, Mexican authorities are working to identify the conditions under which the vessel departed from Cuba and to ensure that necessary assistance is provided to the survivors of this perilous journey.
This rescue operation once again highlights the extreme risks that Cuban migrants face in their pursuit of a better life, as well as the increasing surveillance along the Mexican coasts to address these emergency situations.
In November, a rustic vessel made of aluminum sheets and wood—approximately three meters long and 1.5 meters wide—was discovered on the beach of the Nueva Yucalpetén colony, and it was later revealed that Cuban migrants were on board.
Similarly, in October, a new vessel with at least 25 immigrants from the island arrived at the center of Playa Mujeres, Cancun, Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Migration of Cuban Rafters to Mexico
What risks do Cuban rafters face when trying to reach Mexico?
Cuban rafters face numerous risks when trying to reach Mexico, including shipwrecks, dehydration, prolonged sun exposure, storms, and the possibility of being detained or returned to Cuba. The precariousness of their vessels increases the dangers of these journeys.
How do Mexican authorities respond when they rescue Cuban rafters?
Mexican authorities, such as the Navy and the National Guard, provide immediate medical assistance to the rescued rafters, offering first aid and rehydration, and then they are transferred to Public Security facilities for medical evaluations. The National Immigration Institute coordinates actions to determine their legal status.
What measures are being implemented in Mexico to manage the arrival of Cuban rafters?
Mexico has intensified surveillance along its coastlines to respond to migrant emergencies. Authorities are working to identify the conditions under which vessels depart from Cuba and to ensure necessary support for survivors. There is a focus on coordinating legal and humanitarian actions to manage these situations.
Why do Cubans continue to risk these dangerous journeys to Mexico?
Despite the risks, Cubans are seeking a better life outside of their country due to the rising poverty, violence, and repression in Cuba. These factors drive them to take dangerous routes in an attempt to reach Mexico or the United States in search of better opportunities.
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