MIAMI – Coast Guard Cutter Isaac Mayo’s crew repatriated 12 aliens to Cuba, Wednesday, following two irregular, unlawful maritime migration attempts.
Anyone attempting to enter the U.S. illegally by sea will be interdicted and repatriated.
A Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations crew notified Coast Guard Sector Key West watchstanders of an alien raft, Jan. 19, approximately 21 miles south of Long Key. Sector Key West command center watchstanders diverted the crew of Coast Guard Cutter Charles David Jr. to interdict.
A good Samaritan notified Coast Guard Sector New Orleans that they embarked seven aliens from a disabled vessel, Thursday, 50 miles southwest of Cuba in the Yucatan Passage. Coast Guard District Eight watchstanders notified Coast Guard District Seven command center watchstanders who diverted the crew of Coast Guard Cutter Reliance to respond.
No injuries were reported.
"The Coast Guard increased our presence in the Florida Straits, Windward and Mona Passages to interdict unlawful maritime migration attempts before they reach our shores," said Lt. Cmdr. John W. Beal, Coast Guard District Seven public affairs officer. "The Coast Guard is committed to our mission to safeguard America by securing our maritime borders and preventing illegal entry into the continental United States and U.S. territories. Don’t take to the sea."
Once aboard a Coast Guard cutter, aliens are processed to determine their identity and nationality, and are provided food, water, shelter, and basic medical attention before repatriation to their country of origin or return to the country from which they departed.
Mariners and recreational boaters are asked to report illicit maritime activity to the U.S. Coast Guard via marine VHF radio on Channel 16.
For more information about Operation Vigilant Sentry, including imagery, visit these links:
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