Coast Guard repatriates 59 migrants to Dominican Republic, following 2 separate vessel interdictions in the Mona Passage

The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Heriberto Hernandez crew repatriated 59 migrants to Dominican Republic, Thursday, following the interdiction of two overloaded vessels in Mona Passage waters off the west coast of Puerto Rico. “Irregular migration voyages in the Mona Passage are highly dangerous and an unlawful means to enter the United States,” said Cmdr. Gerard Wenk, Sector San Juan chief of response.  “Anyone thinking of taking part in one of these voyages must understand that their life will be at risk, and when they are interdicted at sea or apprehended ashore, they will not be allowed to stay in Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands.”