The Honduran Naval Force recently rescued nine Cuban citizens who were adrift in waters near Swan Island, in the Honduran Caribbean.
The migrants, all men, left Las Coloradas in the Granma province on December 9, with the aim of reaching the United States in search of a better future, they told the local media TSiHonduras.
They were traveling aboard a vessel called La Niña, which was equipped with a central engine and sails.
However, their journey became complicated when, halfway between Swan Island and the Cayman Islands, the boat's engine broke down.
Magdiel Torres Escalona, captain of La Niña, recounted the tense moments: "While we were on our way, halfway between Swan Island and the Cayman Islands, our engine broke down, consuming all the oil it had and starting to fail. So, relying only on a sail and the grace of God, we were able to reach Swan Island."
On Swan Island, they were rescued by personnel from the Honduran Naval Force, who provided them with medical assistance, food, and shelter.
The corvette captain with the last name Sierra, in charge of Public Relations for the Naval Force, highlighted the humanitarian efforts of the personnel
The Naval Force of Honduras has successfully completed the mission of transporting these Cuban citizens from Swan Island, who had encountered a problem with their propulsion system. As a result of this, they were stranded on Swan Island, where our personnel were able to assist them by providing food, shelter, and medical care as much as possible in the area.
The rescue coincided with the Christmas celebrations, allowing the rafters to share a special dinner with the Naval Force officers.
"They arrived just before Christmas, and our staff prepared their Christmas dinner, which was more about sharing with our Cuban brothers," added Captain Sierra.
The Cubans are at the disposal of the National Migration Institute, which will determine the appropriate legal procedures.
Pairon Cloter, an official from the National Institute of Migration, reported on the status of the rafters: "They will be granted entry as stipulated by the law and will have a stay of five days."
In the last weeks of 2024, there has been an increase in the journeys of Cuban migrants who, in their quest to reach the United States or neighboring countries, are venturing out to sea in precarious boats, facing significant risks.
On December 18, the U.S. Coast Guard repatriated 43 Cuban migrants intercepted at sea. With this operation, the total number of irregular Cuban migrants returned in 2024 rises to 1,312, according to data from the Cuban Ministry of the Interior.
Eight days later, on December 26, 12 Cuban migrants, after six days adrift, were rescued by the Navy and the National Guard of Mexico off the coast of Tulum, Quintana Roo.
The crew members, weakened by sun exposure and lack of food, received medical attention and were placed in the custody of the National Institute of Migration to determine their legal status.
On December 22, ten Cuban migrants reached the shores of Florida in a homemade boat. They were intercepted by the U.S. Border Patrol and are now facing deportation proceedings.
On Monday, it was reported that a group of 18 Cuban migrants, consisting of five women and thirteen men, arrived near the shores of Key West International Airport in the Florida Keys on Sunday night.
Of the migrants, two were transported to Lower Keys Medical Center due to severe dehydration and loss of sensation in their extremities.
The persistence of these journeys reflects the desperation of many Cubans who, driven by the economic crisis and a lack of opportunities in their country, risk their lives at sea in search of a better future.
The authorities of the host countries continue to strengthen monitoring and repatriation measures, while urging migrants to utilize legal channels for immigration in order to prevent tragedies and ensure the safety of individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Rescue of Cuban Rafters in Honduras and the Migratory Situation
How was the rescue of the Cuban rafters by the Naval Force of Honduras?
The Naval Force of Honduras rescued nine Cuban rafters who were adrift near Swan Island after their vessel, named La Niña, experienced a mechanical failure. The rafters received medical attention, food, and shelter from the Honduran military.
What is the fate of the Cuban rafters rescued in Honduras?
After the rescue, the Cuban rafters were handed over to the National Migration Institute of Honduras, which will determine the appropriate legal procedures. They will be allowed to stay for five days according to local legislation.
Why do Cubans risk their lives at sea to reach other countries?
The economic crisis and lack of opportunities in Cuba drive many citizens to emigrate in search of a better future. Desperation arising from misery and repression on the island motivates Cubans to undertake dangerous maritime journeys.
What measures are the authorities taking to manage the migration of Cuban rafters?
Authorities in receiving countries, such as the United States and Mexico, are strengthening surveillance and repatriation measures to control illegal migration. Migrants are urged to use legal pathways to prevent tragedies and ensure their safety.
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