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Press Release | Jan. 31, 2023

Coast Guard repatriates 309 people to Haiti

Editor's Note: Click on image to download high-resolution photos.

MIAMI — Coast Guard Cutter Valiant and Legares' crews repatriated 309 Haitians to Haiti, Monday and Tuesday.

A Coast Guard Operation Bahamas Turks and Caicos MH-60 Jayhawk aircrew notified Coast Guard District Seven watchstanders of a sailing vessel, Jan. 26, at approximately 7:30 a.m., about 23 miles northwest of Mole Saint Nicolas, Haiti.

There were men, women and children on the vessel. 

"Attempting to migrate by sea in a less than seaworthy vessel is not only illegal but, also extremely dangerous," said Petty Officer 1st Class Nicole Groll, Coast Guard District Seven. “The sea is unforgiving, and these voyages can cost you your life.”

Since Oct. 1, 2022, Coast Guard crews have interdicted 2,513 Haitian migrants compared to:

  • 7,175 Haitian Migrants in Fiscal Year 2022
  • 1,527 Haitian Migrants in Fiscal Year 2021
  • 418 Haitian Migrants in Fiscal Year 2020
  • 932 Haitian Migrants in Fiscal Year 2019
  • 609 Haitian Migrants in Fiscal Year 2018
  • 419 Haitian Migrants in Fiscal Year 2017

Once aboard a Coast Guard cutter, all migrants receive food, water, shelter and basic medical attention. 

For more information about newly announced immigration programs:

Fact Sheet: Biden/Harris Administration announces new border enforcement actions

Secretary Mayorkas Delivers Remarks on DHS's Continued Preparation for the End of Title 42 and Announcement of New Border Enforcement Measures and Additional Safe and Orderly Processes

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services: Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans

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