The United States Coast Guard says its crews have repatriated and transferred 169 migrants to Cuba and the Bahamas, making it known that the maritime borders to the United States are closed to irregular and illegal migration.

The Coast Guard said these repatriations and transfers came from nine separate voyages, originating from Cuba or the Bahamas.

It said it and its Homeland Security Task Force – Southeast partners are “continuing to be a presence in the air and on the water to detect and deter migrants from attempting to enter the US by sea.”

“Our maritime borders are closed,” said Captain Benjamin Golightly, Operation Vigilant Sentry incident commander. “It’s imperative for family members and friends to share this with their loved ones in Cuba, Haiti, Bahamas and Dominican Republic.

“The voyage is dangerous, and you could lose your life,” he added. “You will be interdicted, then repatriated to your country of origin, or where you departed from. Additionally, unlawful entry or attempts to reach the US by sea will result in your disqualification for the Cuba and Haiti parole process.”

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