The Department of Immigration and the relevant agencies have in their custody 83 illegal Haitian migrants who were picked up when their sloop ran aground off Mangrove Cay, Andros on Saturday, August 25, 2012.
It is believed the rough weather conditions (due to Tropical Storm Isaac) caused the vessel to run aground and the migrants sought safety at Lisbon Creek where they were apprehended by the authorities.
Director of Immigration, Jack Thompson told the National Emergency Management Agency that plans were underway to search for possible bodies, but the seas were too rough to do so at that time.
He confirmed the incident reported by Island Administrator Maxine Duncombe, in her report to NEMA on conditions in Mangrove Cay due to Tropical Storm Isaac.
The Bahamas department of Meteorology on Saturday, August 25, issued a Hurricane Watch for the island of Andros. A watch means that within 36, a hurricane with winds over 73 hours is likely to hit. The met department also advised small craft operators to remain in port and ensure their vessels are safely moored.
Chief Immigration officer for the Immigration Department enforcement unit Peter Joseph was on hand to deal with the illegal migrants, who are being housed at the Catholic Centre in Mangrove Cay, Mr. Thompson said.
The community at large headed by Local Government is assisting in clothing and feeding the 63 men and 20 females. Medical personnel have also declared the Haitians to be in good health.
It is believed that up to 200 Haitians were on board the vessel when they left Cap Haitien seven days ago.
The matter is being further investigated, Mr. Thompson said.
