The search for additional casualties following this morning’s incident has concluded for today due to worsening light conditions and sea state. A scaled down search will begin again tomorrow, but no further casualties are anticipated.
“I can confirm that 33 people were detained as suspected illegal Haitian immigrants. This group consisted of 21 males, including one child, and 12 females. These people will be repatriated to Haiti at the earliest opportunity.
“There is actually one fewer casualty then was reported earlier with 17 confirmed fatalities. This group consists of 12 male and five female adults. The remains will also be repatriated following post mortems (autopsies) to establish the cause of death.
“I speak on behalf of all of the Turks and Caicos Islands authorities, as well as the RTCIPF, when I say thank you to our partners, including the US Coast Guard who provided aerial support in the form of a helicopter and a C-130 maritime patrol aircraft today. Their assistance is greatly appreciated.
“The stricken vessel has now been removed from the water and will be central to our ongoing investigations into this matter.
“Our patrols of the waters surrounding our islands have recommenced, and as ever, we appreciate the support of the general public, especially other water users, in helping us identify and track suspicious vessels n our waters and around out coastline. We must all remain vigilant to combat illegal migration.
“Finally, I would like to thank my own officers, as well as the members of the other emergency services, who acted professionally in particularly challenging circumstances today.”
