The bodies of 15 women, a man and an infant were found in the water after the Royal Bahamas Police Force and the Royal Bahamas Defense Force responded to reports of an incident on a boat seven miles from New Providence just after 1 a.m. Sunday, Bahamian Prime Minister islands. This is stated in a statement by Philip Davis.
Twenty-five people have been rescued and turned over to health officials for observation, Davis said, but several more are believed to be missing and search and rescue efforts are ongoing.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the twin-engine speedboat left the pier on West Bay Street around 1:00 a.m. with approximately 60 people on board. It is believed that their final destination was Miami, Florida,” the Prime Minister said.
“Law enforcement officials will brief you on the criminal case as well as other rescue and recovery efforts. However, I would like to convey the condolences of my Government and the people of the Bahamas to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragedy. ‘, said the prime minister.
Davis said his government has always warned against dangerous travel and has stepped up surveillance on land and at sea, as well as increased patrols.
“We take this opportunity to strongly condemn the organization of smuggling operations that risk human lives and endanger our national security. Persons convicted of involvement will be held accountable,” he said. “I understand the situation that many of these migrants face, which encourages them to take such a big risk. However, we urge those considering such a journey not to do so.”
Bahamas Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander told reporters Sunday that between 50 and 60 people were on board the 20-foot boat and that the search for survivors or bodies was ongoing.
He said that among the survivors were two Bahamians who were being questioned by the police. According to him, the men were known to the police “for various offenses.”
Immigration Minister Keith Bell said 20 people were taken to a detention center and questioned.
“These people indicated that they would pay anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000 for this life-changing journey,” Bell said.
