CARICOM saddened at deaths of Haitian migrants at sea

The 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM), of which Haiti is a member, on Monday said it is extremely saddened by the tragic loss of life at sea of a number of Haitians off the coast of The Bahamas on Sunday.

“This latest disaster brings to the fore once again the desperate situation in Haiti and the reprehensible nature of the actions of those who are taking advantage of people trying to escape,” the Guyana-based CARICOM Secretariat said in a statement.

It said “CARICOM will continue to work with Haiti and the international community to bring peace, security, and development to our sister nation.

“CARICOM looks forward to the apprehension and bringing to justice of those who prey on the hopes and aspirations of vulnerable persons.”

At least 17 people died, and 25 others were rescued after a boat believed to be involved in a human smuggling operation, capsized just off the coast of New Providence early Sunday. The authorities believe that the boat was headed for Miami in the United States.

- Advertisement -

Immigration officials said survivors told them that they paid between US$3,000 and US$8,000 for the voyage.

Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis, said the vessel left a docking facility at approximately 1:00 a.m., with approximately 60 people on board.

Davis said the Royal Bahamas Police Force and Defence Force responded to reports of the boating incident seven miles off New Providence shortly after.

“My government, since the time it came into office, has continually warned against these treacherous voyages. We have increased surveillance on land and sea and intensified patrols. We take this opportunity to strongly condemn the organization of smuggling operations which risk human life and comprise our national security.”

The authorities said 16 of the fatalities were women and the other was a male toddler, all believed to be Haitian migrants living in the Bahamas. Three of those rescued, including two Bahamian men, were admitted to hospital.

The Bahamians are also in police custody.

CARICOM said it is extending condolences to the relatives of those who lost their lives and to the Government and people of Haiti.

CMC/

 

More Stories

Audrey Marks, Delano Seiveright

Senators Audrey Marks, Delano Seiveright appointed to ministerial roles

Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness has appointed two newly sworn-in government senators, Audrey Marks and Delano Seiveright, to ministerial positions, reinforcing his Administration’s focus...
Antigua and Barbuda says it will accept nationals deported from the US

Antigua and Barbuda seeks clarification on draft US travel ban proposal

The government of Antigua and Barbuda has formally sought clarification from the United States following reports that the Caribbean nation could be among the...
Andrew Holness

Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness hints at election announcement ‘very soon’

Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness has hinted that the countdown to general elections has begun, telling supporters that “every Jamaican will be called upon...
Marco Rubio

US applauds Belize’s democratic elections, pledges continued partnership

The United States has congratulated Prime Minister John Briceño on his re-election, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Belize. In an official statement,...
Mr Justice Andrew Burgess

CCJ to host special sitting for Justice Andrew Burgess’s retirement

The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) will hold a Special Sitting on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, to honor the retirement of the Honourable Mr...
cocaine bust Guyanese nationals

Guyanese nationals among six arrested in massive cocaine bust off West Africa

Four Guyanese nationals are among six crew members arrested after authorities discovered 6.3 tonnes of cocaine aboard a Guyana-flagged vessel off the West African...
US travel ban

Saint Lucia and St. Kitts & Nevis respond to reports of US travel ban

The governments of Saint Lucia and St. Kitts & Nevis have responded to media reports suggesting that their nations are included in a draft...
US travel ban

Caribbean nations included on draft US travel ban proposal

According to a report by The New York Times, the Trump administration is considering a new travel ban that would affect several Caribbean nations. The...
NMIA Jamaica Norman Manley International Airport

Fire at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston disrupts flights

Emergency responders worked overnight to contain a fire that broke out in the Club Kingston VIP Departure Lounge at Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA)...
Guyana Government to assist sugar workers

Guyana in diplomatic talks with US over Cuban medical missions sanctions

The Government of Guyana is engaged in diplomatic discussions with the United States to address concerns over the expansion of US restrictions on Cuba’s...

Latest Articles

Skip to content