A routine voyage turned into a dramatic rescue after a good Samaritan’s vessel collided with an unlit, disabled boat carrying 11 migrants off the coast of Port Everglades.
The incident unfolded early Monday morning, after the U.S. Coast Guard said when the good Samaritan reported the collision. A boat crew from Coast Guard Station Fort Lauderdale arrived to find the vessel and its occupants, who were later taken aboard for processing and care.
“Our highest priorities are maritime border security and to prevent the unnecessary loss of life at sea,” said Lt. Thomas Pease, a Seventh District enforcement officer. “Anyone trying to enter the country illegally by sea will be interdicted and repatriated to their country of origin or the country they departed from, consistent with U.S. law and policy.”
Once aboard, the USCG said the migrants receive food, water, shelter, and basic medical attention while officials determine their identities and next steps for repatriation, according to the news release.
Three additional migrants were transferred ashore to U.S. Border Patrol Miami Sector agents for further investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Miami, the USCG said.
Petty Officer First Class Diana Sherbs urged mariners to remain vigilant, “Individuals who suspect human smuggling ventures at sea can report suspicious criminal activity to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Tip Line at 1-866-347-2423.”
The interdiction is part of Operation Vigilant Sentry, a federal initiative led by the Homeland Security Task Force-Southeast (HSTF-SE), which maintains a constant presence across the Florida Straits, Windward Passage, Mona Passage, and the Caribbean Sea to prevent illegal maritime migration and ensure safety at sea.
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Source: cbs12
