The U.S. returns 12 Cuban rafters detained while attempting to reach Florida

The U.S. returns 12 Cuban rafters detained while attempting to reach Florida.

Cuban immigrantsPhoto © @USCGSoutheast / X

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The United States Coast Guard repatriated 12 Cuban migrants on Wednesday, following two thwarted attempts at irregular maritime migration by that agency in the past week.

The rafters had been intercepted at sea while attempting to reach the shores of Florida, according to a statement released on X.

According to the official report, on January 19, a team from the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Air and Marine Operations alerted Coast Guard personnel in the Key West Sector about a migrant raft approximately 21 miles south of Long Key.

The Coast Guard diverted the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Charles David Jr. to carry out the interdiction.

Additionally, on January 20, seven migrants were rescued from a disabled vessel, about 50 miles southwest of Cuba, in the Yucatán Channel.

Lieutenant Commander John W. Beal, public affairs officer for the Seventh District of the Coast Guard, stated that "the Coast Guard has increased its presence in the Florida Straits, the Windward and Mona Passages to intercept attempts of illegal maritime migration before they reach our shores."

On January 23, the new United States government warned that those attempting to reach land by sea "will be turned back" to their country of origin or point of departure.

In a statement posted on X, the chief of the Miami Sector Border Patrol, Jeffrey Dinise, emphasized that those who illegally enter the country by sea will be returned, either to their country of origin or to the last country they departed from, as part of a stricter border control policy.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Migration of Cuban Rafters and Repatriations

What happens to the Cuban rafters intercepted at sea by the United States?

Cuban rafts intercepted at sea are returned to Cuba or to the last country from which they departed. The U.S. Coast Guard implements these measures to discourage illegal migration and ensure the safety of migrants, who often face life-threatening dangers when attempting to cross the sea in inadequate vessels.

Why do Cubans risk their lives on maritime journeys to the United States?

The desperation caused by the economic crisis and the lack of opportunities in Cuba drives many to seek a better future abroad. Despite the risks and the restrictive immigration policies of the United States, many Cubans feel they have no viable option to improve their living conditions and those of their families.

What are the consequences for Cubans who are repatriated after being intercepted at sea?

Repatriated Cubans are returned to their country of origin and face restrictions when trying to re-enter the United States legally. Additionally, the attempt at illegal migration can have legal and social repercussions in Cuba, where the regime maintains strict control over citizens attempting to leave the country irregularly.

What measures does the United States take to intercept illegal maritime migration?

The United States has increased the presence of the Coast Guard in the Florida Straits and other strategic points. These operations aim to intercept migrants before they reach U.S. shores, in collaboration with agencies such as Customs and Border Protection (CBP), to deter illegal immigration and protect human lives.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.

CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.