Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Intercept Two Illegal Sloops in 24 Hours

One of the boats laden with undocumented Haitian Migrant, whose vessel was intercepted by TCI authorities

The Marine Branch of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) successfully intercepted two illegal sloops carrying a total of 148 migrants within a 24-hour period.

According to the information arm of the Roya Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF), In the early hours of January 12, at approximately 2:25 a.m., the Maritime Operations Center identified a suspicious vessel in the Bird Rock, Long Bay area. The Marine Branch responded swiftly, and by 2:35 a.m., officers had located a dark blue wooden vessel powered by two outboard engines.

The sloop was intercepted, revealing 27 illegal migrants onboard: 21 males (including two minors) and 6 females. All individuals were handed over to the TCI Border Force for processing.

Just after 1:00 a.m. on January 13, the Marine Branch, in coordination with the TCI Regiment, received intelligence regarding a 38-foot wooden Haitian vessel entering TCI waters. The vessel, painted blue and equipped with two outboard engines, was quickly located and intercepted.

This operation resulted in the detention of 121 individuals: 104 males (including a minor) and 17 females.

Photo shows one of the intercepted boats (foreground), which was intercepted with undocumented Haitians on board

Acting Assistant Commissioner Mat Newton commended the collaborative efforts between the RTCIPF, TCI Border Force, and TCI Regiment.

 “I am grateful to our partners for their assistance and support in successfully processing the illegal migrants intercepted by the police,” Newton stated. “This demonstrates that the layers of security in place are increasingly effective, and we will continue strengthening our defenses to combat this type of crime.”

The RTCIPF urges the public to remain vigilant and report any information on illegal activity. Reports can be made by contacting the nearest police station, dialing 911, or calling the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842. Anonymous tips can be shared through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or via the CrimeStoppers P3 app.

Authorities stress the importance of community cooperation in addressing illegal migration and ensuring the security of the Turks and Caicos Islands.