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A group of 26 Cuban migrants survived a shipwreck off the coast of Mexico when their homemade vessel began to sink in the waters near Isla Mujeres.
The boat sustained damage from water during the journey, causing it to partially sink just a few meters from the shore, reported the local media Radio Maya Internacional on Facebook.
According to the testimony of the undocumented individuals, the raft suffered serious damage and began to sink, but it was rescued by authorities, who, with the assistance of the staff from the Port Captaincy of Isla Mujeres and local volunteers, managed to tow it to shore, where it finally became stranded near the whale shark monument.
No fatalities were reported, as detailed in the publications reviewed.
Migrants are under the custody of Mexican authorities to determine their legal status, in a context where the country's president, Claudia Sheinbaum, announced that she would begin the deportation of undocumented individuals due to the new immigration restrictions at the U.S. border.
It was the first landing of Cuban rafters this year, a migratory phenomenon that has been increasing in recent years, against the backdrop of the migration crisis affecting the island since 2021, reported the media outlet La Tertulia on Facebook.
On January 4th, a group of eight rafters of possible Cuban origin was rescued by elements of the Mexican Navy following a joint operation with the U.S. Coast Guard, after the sighting of the migrants at sea in the Gulf of Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions about the shipwreck of Cuban rafters in Mexico
What happened to the Cuban rafters in the shipwreck near Isla Mujeres?
The group of 26 Cuban migrants survived a shipwreck when their homemade vessel began to sink near the coasts of Mexico. They were rescued by local authorities with the help of volunteers, and the boat was towed to shore.
How have the Mexican authorities reacted to this incident?
The Mexican authorities have detained migrants to assess their legal status. President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced that deportations will commence in light of the new immigration restrictions at the United States border.
Why is the number of Cuban rafters trying to reach Mexico still increasing?
The Cuban migration crisis has been on the rise since 2021 due to increasing poverty, violence, and repression in Cuba. These factors drive many Cubans to risk their lives on dangerous sea journeys in search of a better life in Mexico or the United States.
What risks do Cuban rafters face during their journey to Mexico?
Cuban rafters face significant risks such as shipwrecks, dehydration, prolonged sun exposure, and storms, in addition to the possibility of being detained or returned to Cuba. The precariousness of their vessels increases the danger of these journeys.
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