Death of 17 Haitian migrants: Tragedy brings to forefront desperate situation in Haiti – Caricom

…extends condolences to families

Following the loss of at least 17 Haitians, including a child, all of whom died after their boat capsized off the coast of The Bahamas on its way to Florida, on Sunday, the Caribbean Community (Caricom) has expressed its continued hope to bring peace, security, and development to Haiti.

In a statement on Monday, Caricom said, “The Caribbean Community (Caricom) is extremely saddened by the tragic loss of life at sea of a number of Haitians off the coast of The Bahamas on Sunday 24 July.”
This is the latest tragedy, according to Caricom, which brings to the forefront the desperate situation in Haiti and the reprehensible nature of the actions of those who are taking advantage of people trying to escape.
According to the local authorities in The Bahamas, they had rescued 25 passengers from the 30-foot speedboat that overturned in the rough sea waters about seven miles from The Bahamas shortly after midnight on Sunday. They said that some 60 people had been in the boat. The Bahamian and American Coast Guards were searching for those missing.
“Caricom looks forward to the apprehension and bringing to justice of those who prey on the hopes and aspirations of vulnerable persons,” Caricom’s statement read, “Caricom will continue to work with Haiti and the international community to bring peace, security, and development to our sister nation.”
Caricom extended its condolences to the relatives of those who lost their lives and to the Government and people of Haiti.
This heart-breaking tragedy is the worst loss of life in Bahamian waters since at least 2019 when 27 Haitian migrants died in a similar situation.