Two Dominicans Rescued at Sea Found To Be Smuggling 24 Haitians

The Royal Montserrat Police Service (RMPS) is now reporting that the two Dominican men who were rescued at sea last month were smuggling 24 Haitian migrants to St. Maarten.

The Marine Unit had discovered the vessel after it ran aground just north of Rendezvous in September. Police say an extensive search of the area was conducted by Marine Officers and officers from the Integrated Border Security Unit for the migrants.

However, they were not found.

Police are uncertain whether or not the migrants were landed in Montserrat. The RMPS say the vessel MV Catz was also searched and portions of the plant cannabis sativa was found. Captain Darroux led on the investigation which resulted in Henry and Baptiste being charged for smuggling according to section 210 of the Penal Code. This section carries a twenty year imprisonment, a fine of five hundred thousand dollars or both.

Both men appeared before the High Court on Friday and plead guilty to the charge. They were sentenced to four years imprisonment. The vessel MV Catz was confiscated.

Commissioner of Police Steve Foster applauds the staff for their diligence in handling this matter. He extends Special credit to the Marine staff for going beyond the rescue and acting so swiftly on the information received. Commissioner Foster is also extending thanks to the officers of Integrated Border Security Unit who ably assisted in the search.