Related videos:
A Cuban citizen with legal permanent residency in the United States was arrested at the Fort Lauderdale International Airport, accused of being linked to prostitution activities, according to a report by the Border Patrol sector in Yuma.
The operation was carried out in coordination with the Human Trafficking Unit of the Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which identified the Cuban before his arrest. Authorities confirmed that the man is facing criminal charges and that, if found guilty, he could lose his immigration status in the country.
“We work together to safeguard our nation,” the agency stated in a social media announcement, highlighting that the action is part of efforts to strengthen border security.
A pattern of detentions of Cubans
This case is not isolated. Last May, a nine-day operation led by ICE and the Polk County Sheriff's Office in Florida resulted in 255 arrests related to human trafficking, prostitution, and sexual exploitation. Among those detained were migrants from various countries, including Cubans, many of whom are also facing deportation proceedings.
Weeks later, ICE announced the arrest in New Orleans of Roberto Martínez, a Cuban with a history of money laundering. And in September, another compatriot was arrested in Louisville, Kentucky, when he attended an appointment to apply for permanent residency; he had a record of arrests for theft and strangulation.
U.S. authorities have reiterated that migrants with criminal backgrounds or involved in illegal activities risk not only facing long sentences but also losing their immigration status and being deported.
Frequently asked questions about the detention of Cubans in the U.S. for illegal activities
Why was the Cuban citizen arrested at the Florida airport?
The Cuban citizen was arrested at Fort Lauderdale International Airport for his alleged involvement in prostitution activities. The arrest was part of an operation coordinated by the Border Patrol and the Human Trafficking Unit of CBP.
What consequences does a migrant with a criminal record face in the U.S.?
Migrants with criminal records in the U.S. risk facing lengthy sentences and the loss of their immigration status, which could lead to deportation. Authorities have warned that those involved in illegal activities will be subject to deportation.
What is the Cuban government's stance on the deportation of its citizens?
The Cuban government has been reluctant to accept the return of citizens with criminal records or those who left the country before 2017. This refusal complicates deportation processes from the U.S., forcing the search for alternatives such as deportation to third countries.
How do these operations affect the Cuban community in Florida?
The operations have generated concern among the Cuban community in Florida due to the atmosphere of tightening migration policies. There is fear of being targeted in raids or becoming vulnerable to errors in the migration process.
Filed under: