Coast Guard reports discovery of boats on the coast and near the Florida Straits. Twenty-two rafters repatriated.

The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Pablo Valent repatriated 22 Cuban migrants this Tuesday, following two interceptions south of the Florida Keys. Authorities intercepted the vessels after being detected by CBP during air patrols.

The two interceptions occurred at different times and were detected by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) during routine patrols. These patrols are essential to prevent irregular migration through the Florida Straits, a dangerous route.

Following the interceptions, the migrants were repatriated to Cuba by the crew of the Pablo Valent. U.S. authorities reiterated their warning about the dangers of crossing the sea in unsuitable vessels, emphasizing the risks and that the migrants will be returned to their countries of origin.

Prevention campaign: #DontTakeRisks

The crew of the coast guard @USCG Pablo Valent repatriated 22 migrants to Cuba on Tuesday, following two separate interceptions south of the Florida Keys. @CBPAMO detected both during routine air patrols over the Florida Straits. #DontTakeRisks CBPAMO https://t.co/BKQ1rTSVhD

— U.S. Embassy in Cuba (@USEmbCuba) September 25, 2024

The U.S. Embassy in Cuba, together with the Coast Guard, launched the #NoTeArriesgues campaign. This initiative seeks to discourage migrants from risking their lives at sea, highlighting the dangers of the journey and the legal consequences of being intercepted.

Increase in migration attempts in the Florida Straits

The flow of Cuban migrants attempting to reach the United States by sea has increased significantly. This has led to increased patrols in the region, with more interceptions and repatriations.