500 Illegal Haitian Migrants Repatriated

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Days after risking their lives in search of a better life, 500 Haitian migrants who were apprehended in Bahamian waters, boarded Bahamasair planes on Inagua for a short trip back to Haiti today.

Berthony McDermott was there.

The massive repatriation exercise started shortly after 8am Friday in Matthew Town, Inagua.

Four Bahamasair flights, each carrying around 125 migrants took off from Inagua’s airport.

Immigration Minister Keith Bell and National Security Minister Wayne Muroe traveled to the southern island to oversee the exercise.

When Our News arrived, the migrants were sitting on the floor and a foul smell emanated from the church.

Once the church was cleared, officers moved the 428 migrants from that Defence Force vessel into the facility.

At least one pregnant woman and a few children were seen among the group onboard the vessel.

Royal Bahamas Defence Force Captain Glen McPhee is responsible for the southern command.

He said the force has launched Operation Blue Thumb, a maritime blockade strategy, which essentially blocks off the southern border.

He added the RBDF has sufficient boots on the ground to ensure the safety and security of residents.

Munroe had this warning for those thinking to make the risky journey.

The recent influx of migrants follows months of instability in Haiti after its president was assassinated in July and a deadly earthquake struck the island nation one month later.