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A group of eight alleged Cuban rafters was rescued by the Mexican Navy after a joint operation with the United States Coast Guard, following the sighting of the migrants offshore.
The rafters were found 111 kilometers north of the port of Progreso, Yucatán. The rescue operations were carried out by personnel from the Ninth Naval Zone, local media reported.
According to the information shared, the castaways were previously assisted by a U.S. vessel, which later coordinated with Mexican authorities to transfer the Cubans at a designated meeting point.
The rescue involved the deployment of a Coast Guard patrol from the Mexican Navy, which rescued the migrants and provided them with immediate medical attention to treat symptoms of dehydration.
The Mexican Naval Command reported that once stabilized and in optimal health conditions, the migrants will be repatriated to their country of origin.
Throughout 2024, multiple rescue operations highlighted the ongoing migration crisis that drives Cuban citizens to risk their lives on perilous sea journeys.
In May, the Mexican Navy rescued 51 Cuban migrants off the coast of Quintana Roo. These individuals were traveling in two makeshift vessels and were handed over to the National Migration Institute after receiving medical attention.
That same month, another dramatic rescue took place in Tamaulipas, where four rafters survived after spending 34 days at sea. According to reports, unfortunately, four other companions lost their lives during the journey due to dehydration and lack of food.
In December, twelve Cuban migrants were rescued near Tulum, Quintana Roo, after drifting for six days. This incident involved both men and women who showed severe signs of dehydration and exhaustion.
Mexican authorities reiterated their commitment to protecting migrants by ensuring medical assistance and their subsequent custody by the National Migration Institute.
On the other hand, at sea, other rescue operations also stood out. In March, the cruise ship 'Icon of the Seas,' considered the largest in the world, rescued 14 Cuban rafters on its route to Honduras.
Similarly, in December, a sailor rescued five rafters whose boat had capsized, and they were subsequently handed over to the U.S. Coast Guard for repatriation to Cuba.
Finally, the U.S. Coast Guard announced the repatriation of 1,312 Cuban migrants over the course of the year, highlighting the rise of this migratory phenomenon.
Frequently Asked Questions about the rescue of Cuban rafters by the Mexican Navy and the U.S. Coast Guard.
How were the eight Cuban rafters rescued?
The eight Cuban rafters were rescued by the Mexican Navy in a joint operation with the U.S. Coast Guard after being spotted at sea, 111 kilometers north of the port of Progreso, Yucatán.
What happens to the Cuban rafters after they are rescued?
Once rescued, the Cuban rafters receive immediate medical attention to address symptoms such as dehydration. Subsequently, they are handed over to the National Migration Institute to begin the repatriation process to Cuba.
Why do Cubans continue to risk their lives undertaking these dangerous journeys?
Cubans are seeking a better life outside their country due to growing poverty, violence, and repression in Cuba. These factors drive them to take dangerous routes across the sea in hopes of reaching Mexico or the United States.
What measures are the Mexican authorities taking in response to the arrival of Cuban balseros?
Mexican authorities have intensified surveillance along their coasts to address migrant emergencies. They are focused on providing medical assistance and coordinating legal actions through the National Migration Institute to handle these situations in a humanitarian manner.
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