Tragedy At Sea: Suspected Human Trafficking

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – An early morning tragedy at sea claiming the lives of 17 suspected illegal migrants. At an emergency press briefing this afternoon, Prime Minister Philip Davis telling media that a multi-agency investigation is ongoing as officials seek to uncover the circumstances regarding the tragic incident.

Hearses filled the Royal Bahamas Defense Force site on East Bay Street, after officers pulled the 17 bodies from the sea. Police reporting the deceased were victims of an alleged failed smuggling attempt from New Providence. Prime Minister Davis, addressing the tragedy at sea during a joint agency press conference.

The 30-foot speed boat reportedly capsized off of New Providence. Prime Minister Davis noting that additional people are still missing and, that search and recovery efforts continue.

Minister of Immigration, Keith Bell, revealing 20 of the survivors were taken to the detention center for questioning.

Attorney General and Acting Health Minister, Ryan Pinder, says they are waiting for the final reports from law enforcement.

He adds that when it comes to the two Bahamians rescued at sea, they are in police custody.

Deputy Commodore of the Royal Bahamas Defense Force, Captain Shondel Pinder says surveillance continues throughout the southern Bahamas and the capital.