44 Cuban migrants repatriated

44 Cuban migrants repatriated
The Bahamas Department of Immigration logo.

NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Forty-four Cuban migrants, including 40 men and four women, were repatriated to Havana, Cuba, via Bahamassair shortly after 9am today.

The migrants were being detained at the Carmichael Road Detention Center, and the repatriation was carried out “in accordance with UNHCR guidelines and collaborating with Cuban Authorities”, a Department of Immigration statement noted.

“This joint law enforcement escort led by Stephen Laroda, superintendent of immigration, was effected onboard a Bahamasair charter flight with all Ministry of Health COVID-19 protocols strictly enforced,” the statement read.

“The health, welfare and safety of our officers, law enforcement counterparts and migrants remain the highest priority in this COVID-19 environment.

“The Department of Immigration extends special thanks to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Health and the Cuban Embassy for [their] usual and full cooperation.

“The public is reminded that the Department is committed to executing the mandates of our agency by effectively coordinating efforts with other law enforcement agencies and international stakeholders to ensure compliance with the statute laws of our country.”