Coast Guard repatriates 20 migrants to Dominican Republic, following interdiction of unlawful migration voyage in the Mona Passage

Coast Guard Cutter Pablo Valent’s crew repatriated 20 migrants to San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic, Friday, following the interdiction of an overloaded makeshift vessel in Mona Passage waters off the western coast of Puerto Rico.   “Unlawful irregular maritime migration voyages represent a danger to all migrants, especially in a place like the Mona Passage where sea-state conditions are so unpredictable and dangerous,” said Cmdr. Gerard Wenk, Sector San Juan chief of response. “We urge anyone thinking about taking part in one of these voyages that they do not take to the sea, it could save their life.”