Twenty Haitian migrants found on Virgin Gorda

TORTOLA (CMC):

The Department of Immigration says 20 Haitians were picked up in North Sound area of Virgin Gorda earlier this week, intensifying concerns over human smuggling in this British overseas territory.

The group of 12 males and seven females – including three children, was transported from Virgin Gorda to Tortola with assistance from the Marine Unit of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force.

The latest incident is said to underscore ongoing challenges in the territory and the region as Haitians continue to flee severe economic and social hardships, including widespread hunger, political violence and lack of government infrastructure in their home country.

Acting Chief Immigration Officer Nadia Demming-Hodge has since called the community to assist by providing information about the migrants or potential smuggling activities.