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RBDF detains migrant group

THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force apprehended more than 20 migrants who were part of a suspect migrant smuggling operation in Bimini waters earlier this week.

A pregnant woman was among those apprehended.

RBDF officers responded to a search and rescue alert after receiving a call around 7pm Monday from the USCG who reported that they had in turn received a call from concerned family members reporting their loved ones on a boat missing.

On Tuesday July 21, just before 10am, HMBS P-44 coxswained by Chief Petty Officer Acadia Smith, located the 27-foot, white cabin cruiser anchored just off the northeastern point of Great Isaacs, north of Bimini, where it had run aground.

“When it became evident that a migrant smuggling operation was underway, the vessel and its occupants—12 females, one pregnant, nine males and two infants, all believed to be of Haitian descent, were detained. The migrants all appeared to be in good health and will be turned over to the relevant officials for processing,” the RBDF said.

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