In response to the ongoing issue of illegalmigration, Minister of Immigration Hon. Sean Astwood has issued a stern warningto individuals who assist or harbor undocumented migrants in the Turks andCaicos Islands (TCI). Following the interception of two Haitian sloops within12 hours and the apprehension of 177 illegal migrants in January 2017, Astwoodemphasized the severe legal consequences for those involved in facilitatingillegal migration. He highlighted that offenders face fines of up to $20,000,four years of imprisonment, or both, as well as the potential revocation oftheir immigration status.

Astwood condemned the actions oftraffickers and those using their services, noting the tragic loss of 15 livesin TCI waters just the previous week. “It is regrettable that even after such atragedy, people traffickers and their clients continue to ignore the dangersand show blatant disregard for our laws,” he said. The Minister reaffirmed thegovernment's commitment to addressing illegal migration and urged all partiesinvolved in this dangerous activity to consider the consequences of theiractions. He stressed that protecting TCI’s borders is a priority and vowed toenforce the law vigorously.

The recent interceptions were made possibleby the Coastal Radar Station, which detected the vessels, enabling ImmigrationOfficers, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, and partner agenciesto conduct a successful joint operation. Astwood commended the dedication andhard work of the officers involved in apprehending the migrants, underscoringthe government’s resolve to protect the nation's borders and uphold itsimmigration laws. He called for continued vigilance and cooperation among agenciesto tackle the ongoing challenge of illegal migration.