MIAMI (WFLA) — More than 100 migrants were sent back to Haiti after the U.S. Coast Guard said crews caught them trying to enter the country illegally on a boat about 50 miles from Florida.
The 30-foot boat loaded with 132 people was spotted by helicopter crews between Cuba and Cay Sal Bank, just 50 miles southeast of Marathon in the Florida Keys.
Officials said the aircrews notified Coast Guard District Seven watchstanders and the migrants were taken aboard a Coast Guard ship.
All 132 people were provided food, water, shelter and basic medical attention before being returned to Haiti, the Coast Guard said.
“The Coast Guard will continue to prioritize strengthening our domestic integrity and disrupting attempts to enter the United States illegally by sea,” said Lt. Zane Carter, a Coast Guard District Seven enforcement officer. “We are steadfast in our mission to safeguard America by securing our maritime borders.”
Since the beginning of fiscal year 2025, on Oct. 1, Coast Guard crews have repatriated a total of 313 migrants to Hatiti. Authorities said 857 Haitian migrants were repatriated the year prior.