The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

EIGHT Cuban migrants suffering from dehydration came ashore in West Grand Bahama early yesterday morning and were immediately taken into custody by police at the West End Police Station.

The group left Cuba about two weeks ago on a rustic vessel and were headed to Miami, Florida, when their vessel was caught in bad weather, taking them off course from their intended destination.

Nathali Cooper, senior immigration officer, reported that the migrants were onboard a 16ft rustic vessel when they landed in the Bootle Bay area yesterday. He said police were alerted and went to the area, took the men in custody and contacted Bahamas immigration officials.

Mr Cooper said the migrants were taken to the West End Clinic, where they were examined by a doctor and treated for dehydration. The men told immigration officials that they left Cuba 16 days ago and ran out of food and water.

They were in sight of Miami when the weather became horrendous and the wind blew them into Bootle Bay, they reportedly told officials.

They were taken to Department of Immigration headquarters where they were processed. They are expected to be flown to New Providence today and taken to the Carmichael Road Detention Centre to await repatriation.