CBP AMO Intercepts Suspicious Vessel Near Desecheo Island, Puerto Rico: Safeguarding Borders and Communities
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) special agents recently intercepted a suspicious vessel near Desecheo Island, Puerto Rico. The vessel, a 30-foot rustic boat, was carrying 40 migrants who were apprehended and removed from the disabled vessel. The operation began after midnight on June 6 when the Caribbean Air and Marine Operations Center (CAMOC) detected the vessel and alerted a National Air Security Operations Center DHC-8 aircrew.
The DHC-8 aircraft located the rustic vessel with multiple individuals on board and guided a U.S. Coast Guard cutter to intercept the vessel near Puerto Rico's shoreline. The Coast Guard successfully intercepted the vessel within two hours of the initial detection. Among the 40 migrants apprehended, 36 were nationals from the Dominican Republic, consisting of 34 adult males and 2 adult females, along with three Haitian nationals and one male Uzbekistan national.
Director Christopher Hunter of the Caribbean Air and Marine Branch emphasized the commitment of Air and Marine Operations to safeguarding the nation's borders and communities. The successful interdiction near Desecheo Island highlights the dedication and coordination of personnel and partners in disrupting smuggling operations and enforcing border security.
The recent interception of a "yola-type" rustic vessel underscores the challenges faced by human smugglers attempting to reach the United States. To reach Puerto Rico from the Dominican Republic, smugglers must navigate the treacherous Mona Passage, known for its dangerous currents and swells. This route is a common pathway for Dominican Republic nationals seeking to enter the United States and is closely monitored by U.S. authorities.
In a similar incident in May, CBP Air and Marine Operations, the U.S. Border Patrol, and ICE Homeland Security Investigations intercepted a maritime smuggling operation involving 64 migrants on a crowded vessel attempting to reach Puerto Rico. The group, consisting of 58 Dominican Republic nationals and six Haitian nationals, was apprehended and processed for removal proceedings at the Ramey Border Patrol Station.
The recent interdiction near Desecheo Island and the previous smuggling operation highlight the ongoing efforts of U.S. authorities to combat illegal maritime activities and protect the nation's borders. The vigilance and collaboration of law enforcement agencies play a crucial role in disrupting smuggling operations and maintaining border security.